Low Tech AT devices are basic and inexpensive tools that help people with disabilities.
Low Tech AT for Daily Living
Low tech assistive technology for daily living can be as simple as a cane to assist with walking or eyeglasses to assist with reading. Below are a few examples that help individuals with disabilities to independently engage in activities throughout their day.
Low Tech AT for Eating
Adapted dishes and cutlery support individuals with disabilities to eat independently.
The reverse curve and high sides of scoop dishes allow for food to be scooped more easily onto utensils with minimal spillage.
Plate guards allow for easy scooping with the added advantage its portability due to its ease of attaching to standard dinner plates.
Utensils with built up handles are easier to grasp for those with hand weakness.
Weighted Utensils are easier to control for those with hand tremors.
Angled Utensils make it easier to bring food to the mouth after scooping, reducing the need to rotate the wrist.
Nosey Cups allow the user to drink from an open cup without tilting the head back thanks to the cut out for the nose on the opposite side.
Other adapted cups include cups with handles.
Cups with handles are also examples of adapted cups and drinkware.
Low Tech AT for School
Low tech AT options, such as the options below, are simple and affordable ways to assist students with disabilities to be successful in the classroom. AT supports don't have to be expensive or cumbersome to implement; many are simple and very low-cost.
Adapted Rulers assist users to be more accurate when using the ruler. Finger Grip rulers, like the ruler in the video below, has a raised center which allows for easier grasp when using. Other adapted rulers include braille rulers and rulers with tactile lines/numbers.
Adapted scissors have features that support users with poor fine motor deficits. These scissors often open automatically, making it easier and less tiring for those with poor hand strength. Tabletop scissors allow users to insert the paper betwen the scissor blades then push down the handle, removing the need to hold scissors in their hands.
Page turners, also known as page fluffers, help those with fine motor deficits to turn pages of a book or packet of papers. By placing items such as paper clips, foam, or tape on the corners of the pages the items make it easier for the pages to be grabbed and separated.
Visual Schedules provides an illustrative representation of a person's day or specific period of time during the day. They provide routine and predictability, allowing the person see what is coming next. Schedules can use pictures, words, or objects.
(Click on underlined words to open videos of these items)
Slant boards help students maintain visual focus on their work, improves posture, helps to stabilize the student's work, and makes it easier for students to copy from the board.
For students who struggle with math, calculators can help them to solve math problems alongside their peers. Talking calculators, such as the one shown in the video below, are available for individuals with visual impairments.
Visual timers help people see how much time has passed and how much time is remaining. They can help with transitions by building predictability by showing how much time remains.