Switches - Adaptive
Categories
- Gumballs & Jumbos
- Hand, Finger & Body Switches
- Lights, Vibration and Music Switches
- Pillow Switches
- Plate Switches
- Saucer Switches
- Sip, Puff & Mouth Switches
- Special Switch Offer
- Special Switches & Kits
- Switch Modifiers
- Textured Switches
- Theme & Animal Switches
- Wheelchair & Bedside Switches
- Wireless, Movement & Sound Activated Switches
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Eye Blink SwitchSKU #9008Control communicators, switch enabled computers or toys with the blink of an eye using this sensor-controlled switch.$167.95
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Finger Isolation ButtonSKU #716The recessed button on this uniquely designed switch encourages practice of fine motor and finger isolation skills needed for mastery of computers and touch screen devices. This product is also available at a discounted price if you order it as part of our Switch Special Offer - #736W$65.95
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Finger SwitchSKU #717A wearable switch for persons with limited mobility. The slightest movement on the switch activates a device.$85.95
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Grip and Puff SwitchSKU #700Perfect for those with severe mobility challenges, this pneumatic switch is activated by a gentle squeeze of its vinyl grip or by puffing on its mouth tube. To view accessories for this item click accessories tab below.$119.95
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Gumball SwitchesSKU #782WRecognized for their high quality and dependability, these best-selling switches feature a 2½" activation surface. To view accessories for this item click accessories tab below. Item #782R is also available at a discounted price if you order it as part of our Switch Special Offer - #736W$59.95 – $259.95
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Head SwitchSKU #705Ideal for the user who isn’t able to activate a switch manually, this mountable switch can be activated with very light pressure and is also maneuverable with pressure from the knee, elbow or another body part.$79.95
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Jumbo Switch w/VibrationSKU #791Feel the feedback! Our popular Jumbo switch now has vibration.$69.95
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Jumbo Switch with Latch TimerSKU #792Our popular Jumbo Switch is easily accessed by people with uncontrolled movements or tremors thanks to the addition of a latch timer. To view accessories for this item click accessories tab below.$89.95
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Jumbo SwitchesSKU #787WAvailable in a range of bright colors, our super-improved Jumbo Switches have large surface areas that are perfect for people with limited target ability. To view accessories for this item click accessories tab below.$65.95 – $289.95
What Are Adaptive Switches?
An adaptive switch is an access device that allows people with movement-limiting disabilities to use technology and operate electronic devices. Instead of the person performing complex actions such as turning a knob, adaptive switches will offer easier movement solutions, such as pressing a button. It’s possible to have a switch adapter for toys, home appliances, voice-output communication tools, computers and more.
Adaptive switches for special needs provide an interface between the technology and the person with the disability. They modify the normal switch to give the person access, and they’re designed to suit the person’s unique ability. When students with disabilities use such switches, they can work more independently and participate actively at home, at school or in their neighborhood.
Different Types of Adaptive Switches for Individuals With Disabilities
Adaptive switches may be categorized by the way they’re used, their unique features, the response required to create the switch action and the kind of assistance they provide. Some of the categories of adaptive switches and assistive technology available today include the following:
- Hand, finger and body switches: A variety of switches which allow people with limited movement to access devices with the slightest movement of a finger or wrist. Another device in this category is the joystick. It can be mounted on the tip of an armrest. Joysticks may be used to activate more than one type of device by moving the joystick in different directions. The same joystick may be programmed to activate a phone, tablet, TV or array of Bluetooth-enabled devices.
- Light switches: Optical switches are activated by eyes’ movement. The switch is open until the user blinks. As soon as the user blinks, it interrupts with an infrared beam, and the switch is closed.
- Sound switches: Sound-activated switches allow people with movement limitations to use their voice or any distinct sound to operate the switch. Simply saying “ahhh” can make the switch perform a desired action.
- Pillow switches: Pillow switches usually have a soft foam that serves as the activation surface. When the soft surface is pressed, it gives tactile feedback and an audible click. The switch may be activated by the head, shoulders, arms or hands.
- Plate switches: Plate switches are large button switches that are suitable for people who can’t use the small buttons and controls on most adapted devices. They usually have a very large button that is ergonomically designed to respond to the gentlest touch.
- Saucer switches: Saucer switches are ability switches that are specially designed for those who are unable to control or sustain the hand or wrist movements necessary to activate traditional plate switches. Saucer switches are activated with just a light touch and some can be angled to accommodate varying abilities.
- Mouth, sip and puff switches: These switches are equipped with a mouthpiece that allows the user to issue commands by a sip or a puff. The negative pressure produced by a sip and the positive pressure created by a puff causes the switch to come on or go off.
- Wheelchair and bedside switches: These switches are fitted to the wheelchair’s armrest or attached to the user’s bed. Some switches are activated by the fingers, while others are activated by shoulder movement, neck motion, sound or vibration.
What Can Adaptive Switches Be Used For?
Adaptive switches can be used to operate a wide variety of appliances. They enable people with limited motor skills to use devices with buttons that are inaccessible to them. Examples of uses of adaptive switches include:
- Activating toys
- Operating learning devices
- Using computers
- Operating television and radio
- Activating light switches
- Controlling a wheelchair
- Using kitchen appliances
- Activating speech generation devices
How Do I Choose the Right Adaptive Switch?
When you need to select an adaptive switch for your loved one, here are some of the vital factors to consider:
- Actions needed to use the switch: The person using the switch shouldn’t experience strain or fatigue while using it.
- The part of the body the person will use: Choose a switch that the user will operate with any of their unique abilities.
- Range of motion: If the person’s range of motion is small, the switch must be activated with a simple and short movement.
What are the Benefits of Adaptive Switches?
Adaptive switches help people living with limited movement to enjoy the following benefits:
- Greater independence and improved self-esteem
- Improved communication with caregivers
- Enhanced brain development for children
- Better access to technology and computers
- Ability to use their limited abilities to complete learning tasks
Shop for Adaptive Switches for Your Loved Ones Online
Browse our extensive range of adaptive switches designed to help your loved ones use and activate a wide range of devices. We can also help you create unique and personalized switches if you don’t find one that’s suitable for your loved one. Contact us today for more details about selecting adaptive switches.