Return to Previous Page

Turning Things On and Off

Problem
The inability to turn appliances on and off can keep many mentally retarded people from making independent choices.  Physical limitations and confusion often make it difficult for mentally retarded people  to operate appliances in standard ways. 

• Light switches might be too high or they might find the switches on lamps a physical challenge.

• They may be confused by the options presented by a microwave key pad. 

• They may forget to turn things off when they are done.

Related Functional Limitations:  Memory/Organization, Reaching/Lifting, Mobility/Balance, Hand Use

Solution 1: Change the On/Off Mechanism. Substitute one on/off method for another that better utilizes the individual's skills.

Ideas: 

• Use “the Clapper” to operate bedroom lights when in bed.

• Can’t remember to turn off the lights?  Use a timer.

  Solution 2: Use an adapted switch.  When standard on/off methods are too physically challenging, add an adapted switch.

Ideas:

• Add an adapted switch to electrical appliances by using an environmental control unit. 

  Solution 3: Provide alternative or additional directions.

Ideas:

• Pictures:  Use a picture of the individual pushing the on/off button on a computer to remind them of how it’s done.

• Coding: In the cooking directions, add a colored dot next to the instruction to turn on the stove.  Label the stove dial with the same colored dot.

• Labeling:  Label the “on button” or the “on position” with an active picture (i.e. the washer spinning the clothes) and the “off button” or “off position” with a finished picture (i.e., folded clothes).