Assistive technology

Below are some examples of standalone/ simple gadgets usually an item that provides a prompt / reminder or support to carry out a task more independently or an aid to provide reassurance and comfort.

• Cleverly designed or ‘low tech’ daily living aids such as easy grip cutlery, anti-spill cups, and medication organisers
• Lifeline pendant or wrist-worn alarms that can be used to alert a family member, carer, or call centre following a fall
• Memory clocks and devices that prompt to help with remembering the time, date, appointments, and mealtimes
• Smartphone or voice-activated (high tech) systems to control areas in the home such as door opening, turning heating or lights on/off, and opening/closing windows
• Monitored items such as Global Positioning System (GPS) devices that can help a family locate a person who has not returned home or may have gotten lost
• Applications (apps) on mobile phones - such as an app to help those who share caring responsibilities, to coordinate care and communicate better, or to help someone initiate tasks/manage coping strategies
• Hydration monitor to remind you to drink, a Day clock for prompting to important times of day, assistive cup and cutlery to support with tremors and pill dispenser medication reminder, Empathy doll or comfort pet to provide reassurance and enhance wellbeing.  

AskSARA is an easy-to-use website that helps improve people’s access to a range of ‘self-help’ smart technology and associated services in Warwickshire – from automatic pill dispensers to reminder clocks, personal alarms, and general equipment to help make daily activities easier so that they can stay well for longer.

From cooking and bathing to taking medication, or doing hobbies and daily tasks, AskSARA provides information, advice, and guidance on smart gadgets and solutions (Assistive Technology) that can enable people to help themselves. The website signposts people to a whole range of gadgets and solutions based on their own personal needs and produces an individual report with suggested ideas, based on the answers to some simple, multiple-choice questions. AskSARA aims to reduce reliance on friends, family, and professional carers and help them to stay well in their own homes.

• AskSARA website aims to improve and increase access to Assistive Technology for people in Warwickshire
• AskSARA can help people to stay safe, healthy, and independent by suggesting solutions that they and their families or carers may not have thought of before or they may not have been aware of.
• It’s for adults of all ages who need a range of support to make their lives and day-to-day tasks easier.
• There’s a wide variety of Assistive Technology out there that is really simple to use, but people often don’t know what it is they need to help them. The AskSARA website presents them with the information, advice, and guidance that they need.

For more information please visit the AskSara website.

Alexa is a voice-controlled virtual assistant. Alexa can turn any house into a smart home using voice control for compatible smart home devices like lights, plugs, cameras, and door locks. Dim the lights, check the baby camera, or turn on the coffee machine with your voice once you pair compatible products to your Echo device or the Alexa app. You can also automate your smart home with Alexa Routines.

To find out more please visit Alexa Smart Home.

Google Home is an easy way to build and automate your smart home. Choose from thousands of devices to make your home more comfortable, safe, and efficient.

From smart lights to smart locks, Google Home unites devices and services from Google and your favourite brands to build a personalised smart home to help with your tasks.

To find out more please visit Google Home.