Tutorial Eight: Assistive Technology

Assistive technology can be referred to as "a broad range of devices, services, strategies and practices that are conceived and applied to ameliorate the problems faced by individuals that have disabilities" (Cook & Hussey, 2000, p. 5).

One piece of equipment that I have been introduced to is a talking card.

This is a small card (75mm x 75mm) containing a recording chip. It is a simple to use record and playback device that has the capacity to record for about 10 seconds.
The card can be mounted with plastic enabling it to be written on with a non-permanent marker.
This device is excellent for recording voice, music, language and phonics. The device is also available in a range of sizes and costs from $20 depending on the size.

The talking card can be used to increase functional capacity for the user in the following ways:

• Helps people with memory loss to remember tasks, using their own voice prompts or someone else's (e.g. a caregiver, family member or employer)
• Allows clients to hear their own voice and get used to how they sound which can help with socialisation.
• Allows another alternative to giving/leaving instructions for clients, caregivers, family members or employers/employees.