Children and adults with disabilities can use adaptive technologies to complete tasks, relax and engage in their hobbies by removing barriers to access. For example, individuals with a cognitive or physical impairment might use adaptive devices or electronics to supplement their progression in learning or help them interact with the world in a new way.
Choose from a variety of switch-adapted Boom Boxes, CD Players, MP3 Players, Remote Controls and Computer accessories. These options allow people with disabilities to control and enjoy their music, TV and computers independently.
Frequently Asked Questions About Adapted Electronics
Adapted electronics can enable many different tasks and activities like communication, entertainment and exploratory play. Here are some FAQs about adapted electronics and how they can benefit a variety of users.
1. What Are Adapted Electronics?
Adapted electronics are electronic devices that have been modified to make existing technology or products accessible to individuals with disabilities. While many devices, toys and products can be adapted for a variety of needs, examples of adapted electronics are:
- Computers
- Televisions
- Radios
- Speakers
- Mobile devices
- Appliances
- Game consoles
Adaptive electronics, like other adaptive devices, are specifically designed to assist individuals with a disability by tailoring the product to their needs. For example, electronic braille readers, large monitors and keyboard modifications allow users to interact with these technologies.
2. What Are the Types of Adapted Electronics?
Today, customers have more choices than ever before when it comes to adaptive electronics, with options such as:
CD Players and Boom Boxes
Adaptive technologies for boom boxes and CD players allow users to listen to their favorite tunes with switch-adapted functions like:
- Turning the music on and off
- Fast forwarding
- Changing radio stations
- Skipping tracks
These devices often have switches to allow users with visual impairment, limited mobility and other conditions to enjoy music. Some switch-adapted boom boxes and CD players work with an AC adapter, while others run on batteries. In both cases, they can help users build listening skills, foster an appreciation for music and enjoy independence.
Computer Aids
Computer accessibility is essential for individuals of all actual and development ages for learning and play, as well as enhancing communication and independence. Adaptive computer aids like mice and mouse interfaces allow computer users with limited mobility or vision impairment to surf the internet and use computer programs.
These devices have a larger-than-standard size and feature a T-handle and joystick ball to make it easier for people with limited motor control to use them. These adapted electronics work by mimicking cursor movements, key strokes and mouse clicks. There are also interactive mice that can be used with a caregiver or teacher. The teacher moves the mouse, and the user activates a switch at the appropriate moment to make a selection.
Some wireless mouse interface electronics also come with software where specific buttons can be configured to a mouse click or keystroke.
iPad Accessories
iPads already have features that allow users to increase text size and more. Adaptive technologies for iPads allow users to take photos by activating a switch from a distance and allow them to dock their iPad easily on a mounting system. There are also devices to help users listen to music through Bluetooth and switch interfaces to access compatible apps through their iPads.
Remote Controls
Remote controls for televisions already offer accessibility for those with reduced mobility. Adapted remotes for people with reduced fine motor skills or impaired fine motor coordination provide further support by holding traditional remote controls in place, allowing TV watchers to access the buttons more easily. Adaptive remote controls for people with limited mobility are oversized and clearly labeled with words and symbols for various actions. These remotes offer larger strike surfaces so that individuals can easily:
- Flip to their favorite program
- Adjust the volume
- Turn the TV on and off
- Change channels
Speakers
Switch-adapted speakers allow users to enjoy listening to music independently. Adapted speakers feature large, clearly labelled buttons to perform the following functions:
- Turning the speaker on and off
- Adjusting the volume
- Changing tracks
- Playing or pausing the music
Some speakers are specifically for use with Bluetooth players.
3. How Do Adapted Electronics Help With Special Needs?
For people with disabilities, adaptive electronics offer independence through switch-adapted controls and other features. These devices make electronics truly accessible to more users and can be operated in conjunction with the accessibility features found with many electronic devices.
The internet, music, TV and other technologies offer many opportunities. They allow for relaxation and give viewers and listeners a way to connect with the world and stay up to date. Computers allow people to communicate and even work from home. For people with functional needs, commonly referred to as special needs, adapted electronics can promote improved self-care, inclusion and participation.
By making communication, education and entertainment more accessible, adapted electronics empower those living with a disability to enjoy many other benefits, such as:
- Access information through the news, the internet and communication channels
- Complete work and homework assignments online
- Listen to music to relax
- Pursue music as a hobby
- Learn cause and effect
- Watch their favorite movies and TV shows
- Play games or browse the internet independently
- Connect with others online
- Use guided mice to work with a teacher or caregiver
4. Who Benefits From Adaptive Electronics?
Individuals of any actual and developmental age can enjoy adaptive electronics. Like any adaptive device, these electronics are intentionally designed to help children and adults with disabilities unlock their potential to learn, play, interact and engage with the world.
For years, music and television have provided us with inspiration, education, joy and connection. The internet has enabled us to work, study and communicate with others. Thanks to adaptive devices, those living with mobility issues, vision impairment and other conditions get to enjoy these benefits of electronics too.
Browse Our Adaptive Devices and Products Today
Enabling Devices offers exceptional products that allow children and adults to enjoy music, television and computers independently through external capability switches. If your family member or student is living with a disability or medical condition that prevents them from using electronic devices, browse our selection to find solutions engineered for their unique needs.
With more than 40 years of experience helping people with a range of conditions, Enabling Devices is dedicated to empowering and offering independence to people all over the country. If you’d like a free consultation to discuss our products, contact us today.
