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Tuesday, July 10, 2018

Happy Independence Day!

We just celebrated the 4th of July---Independence Day.  Independence is what most people with disabilities struggle to achieve every day.  It's probably the most common word used in an IEP, "Johnny will independently blah blah blah."  Technology is key in achieving independence but technology isn't just high tech computers and expensive equipment.  My daughter is moving to a new apartment after being in the same place for 3 years.  We had pretty much figured out what she needed to be as independent as possible in her living space.  Most of her equipment will move with her as will one of the two roommates who share the overnight attendant responsibilities.  We are welcoming a new roommate this year too! One of the least expensive but most helpful pieces of equipment is her balance poles which she uses next to her bed and toilet to help with transfers.  The shower at her new apartment is not as accommodating as her old one but we have a sliding transfer seat that she has used in different environments in the past that we have dragged out of the attic to bring to her new apartment. There is a handheld shower head but it needs a longer cord.  We have a few of those in our equipment stash too.  We also have a personal bidet that I got from Groupon ($24.99)  that has
become THE favorite thing to help with personal care.  
We will be meeting with an Independent Living Specialist from Vocational Rehabilitation to talk about the front door.  In her old apartment, Kay had a button on her chair and next to her bed to operate a door opener on the door.   At her new place, the door opens directly to the outside and uses an old fashioned key versus a key fob.  We will see what kind of solution they come up with for her.  All her computer and AAC equipment sets up the same no matter where she is. 
Now, where to put the trash can and park her wheelchair for charging???

Using OneDrive App on IPads by Matt Kennedy

I wanted to share this post I saw in the QUAT listserv because I was always searching for a way to complete worksheets when my daughter was...