Communication disabilities often prevent people from making themselves understood, with around 1.3% of the population in the US 15 years and above experiencing the problem. Meanwhile, the figures stand at around 1.4% in the UK and 1.5% in Canada for those older than 4 years. The good news is that adaptive technology can help those with speech and communication difficulties to make themselves understood and understand what others are saying.
From devices to apps that target speech and communication, mobility, and learning issues, adaptive tech and software aids in empowering people with disabilities to overcome obstacles and work around the challenges they face.
Independence Is Highly Valued
The ability to do things on your own highly valuable. This is where adaptive technology plays a big role in helping individuals with a disability to achieve independence. For example, some children who have cerebral palsy might have severe hearing problems, making it difficult to communicate.
They will benefit from using augmentative and alternative communication apps and boards that are designed for special needs children. From tactile screens to adaptive switches, technology assists them to gain control of their movements through accurate positioning, tapping, and dragging done by machines so that they can communicate and express themselves.
Apps and technology also help individuals develop sight vocabulary, promote speech development, and improve fine motor skills. In addition, certain apps and software assist in fostering memory and matching skills.
Users have the option to use switchboards when learning new words or use the tap screen. Either way, communication technology supports individuals in achieving a level of independence when learning things or communicating.
Improving Quality Of Life
People with communication disabilities often have a hard time expressing themselves and understanding others. This can limit their capability to learn and their access to social engagement. For adults, it may be hard to continue working or sustain their education because of physical impairments affecting their hearing, walking and talking.
Adaptive tech and apps can bridge the gap created by the disability. For example, adaptive software can enable people with special needs to enjoy using a computer. Special software can read aloud commands, typed characters, and much more. Spoken words can also be typed on the computer.
By using assistive and adaptive technology, people with disabilities can now communicate better, become mobile, continue their schooling, and work as an adult. They are also more involved socially.
This will increase their self-confidence, encourage autonomy, and improve physical and mental wellbeing. As a direct consequence, the overall quality of life is improved.
Moreover, adaptive tech also reduces the necessity of formal health care and support services. For adults with disabilities, the need for long-term care may decrease as the quality of life is enhanced because people are becoming autonomous and lead engaging and satisfying lives. Integrating into society by using adaptive tech and software makes it easier to do day-to-day activities for people with special needs.
Technology is constantly being updated to benefit people with disabilities and help them cope, with daily living including improvement in mobility, speech, sight, and hearing. It also promotes accessibility, fostering social inclusion for people with impairments, regardless of their age.
