ONE SWITCH SINGLE-APPLIANCE UNIT

Description:  Cordless control unit for enabling switch users.  Provides remote, on/off operation of an AC appliance of up to 600 watts (lamp, fan, food blender, hair dryer, etc) from a distance of up to 20 feet.  Comes with receiver and a transmitter that accepts an adapted switch.  Requires 2 AA batteries.

To Operate: Plug the appliance into the receiver and the receiver into a wall outlet.  Plug the enabling switch into the transmitter.  Activating the switch will run the appliance until the user turns it off by activating the switch again.  Transmitter does not have to be pointed directly at the device to turn it on/off.

Application:  Gives enabling switch users with  limited hand use the opportunity to turn on/off a wide variety of AC appliances and equipment.  Simple to operate transmitter may be helpful for individuals with limited memory/organization or limited vision.

Vendor(s):  Enabling Devices   Approximate Cost: $83.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

POWERLINK 3 CONTROL UNIT

Description:  Environmental control unit that allows user to  operate up to 2 electrical appliances using a single enabling switch. Provides 1700 watts of power.

To Operate: Select the mode of switch control (direct, latch, or timer) to match the individual's need. Plug the switch and appliance into the control unit. Plug the control unit into the wall outlet.

Application: Control unit gives single enabling switch users with limited hand use and memory/organization the opportunity to participate in many activities. Unit also helps users who enjoy visual, auditory and tactile stimulation to activate sensory stimulation devices. Examples include cooking (turning on/off a blender), work (operating an electric stapler), recreation (listening to music on a tape recorder) and self care (operating a blow dryer).

Vendor(s): AbleNet Inc    Approximate Cost:  $182.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

SHOPPING SMART CURRICULUM

Description:  Set includes 1) 288 color laminated picture cards of grocery items; 2) a small folder with clear pockets for organizing and carrying selected cards; 3) marking pens to change or highlight items on the cards; 4) task sequence pages; 5) an Instructor's guide.

To Operate: Laminated cards are easy to organize and keep clean.

Application:  The cards can be used both at home to plan a grocery list and at the store to remember items to purchase.  This is useful for those with limited memory/organization and/or reading and writing skills. Cards aid in communicating with store employees for those with limited or no speech and/or hearing.

Vendor(s): Attainment Company    Approximate Cost:  $99.00 ($50.00 without task sequencing pages and instructor's guide.)
Picture cards are available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

SPYROLACES

Description:  One size fits all, “spring” shaped shoe laces. Available in a variety of colors.

To Operate: Remove original laces and lace shoes with Spyrolaces.  “Spring” tension holds laces and shoes in place without tying.  Tension can be adjusted by pulling on Spyrolaces.

Application:  Allows for independent donning and removal of shoes by those with limited hand use. Helpful for those with poor memory/organization skills who cannot tie shoes in conventional manner.

Vendor(s): Sammons/Preston    Approximate Cost:  $8.00

Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

TIME TIMER

Description:  A "visual timer" that displays elapsed time. Eight inches in diameter.  Available in additional sizes.

To Operate: Set the timer for 1 to 60 minutes by moving the translucent red disc to the desired time.  As the time elapses, the red disc slowly disappears.  The time is over when the red display is gone.  The timer has no final auditory signal.

Application:  Provides a concrete representation of the passing of time which is helpful for those with poor memory/organization.   Unlike most timers, it provides a visual rather than an auditory signal when the "time is up", beneficial for people with limited or no hearing.  Good contrasting colors are helpful for those with limited vision.

Vendor(s): North Coast Medical, Nasco    Approximate Cost:  $25.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library

WIRELESS PERSONAL PAGER

Description:  Compact, wireless pager system allows an individual to contact caretaker within a 100 foot range. Caretaker wears receiver module which chimes or vibrates (depending on the model) when the individual pushes a button on the transmitter. Switch adapted transmitter version also available.  Uses a 12V and 2 “AA” batteries.

To Operate: Press the button on the transmitter or use an enabling switch (adapted version).  The receiver will then sound or vibrate, depending on the model.

Application: Useful way for individuals with limited mobility/balance, speech and memory/organization to call for assistance.  Switch adapted transmitter is useful for someone with limited hand use or reaching/lifting ability. Vibrating model is helpful for caregiver with limited hearing.

Vendor(s):  Enabling Devices (adapted version), LS&S Group  
Approximate Cost:  Auditory Pager- $34.00; Adapted Auditory Pager $41.00; Vibrating Pager- $40.00
Available to borrow from the Adapted Activities Library