Gadgets

[Tony]

Apologies it this has already been covered elsewhere but I thought it might be useful to share ideas of things which can make our lives easier.

For example we have a number of WiFi enabled light bulbs and plugs. I also have an Amazon Alexa which enables me to switch light on and off with voice commands. I can also control the heating like this and I also use Alexa to play the radio and music.

There are alternatives to Alexa or you can simply use a smart phone using voice or touch controls.

Smart technology has certainly proved a great benefit to me. Any other useful tools or gadgets people find really useful?

[matthew55]

Being a mute myself I have no use for voice operation. I do know that symptoms can very rapidly develop so please be careful what you spend

[Ellie]

For the non-techies and couch potatoes (i.e. most people 😉) - technology is available for all, if you go through your SLT/OT and are deemed eligible for an assistive tech device (tablet/laptop), usually because of manual dexterity problems.

People really should not have to buy anything (or much) as assistive technology is usually supplied - although some areas are better than others - plus, the MNDA have a grants system and have devices to borrow.

The most common software used on AT devices given to people with an MND is Grid 3 and it has environmental controls (TV, lights, fan etc.). It even can talk to Alexa (Alexa isn't included)

[Tony]

matthew55 Appreciate that voice control is not for everyone and our conditions vary so much that nothing will be. In my case I still have my voice but I can’t reach the light switch so this has proved really useful. Also, it can all be operated by a smart phone.

Be interested to hear of other gadgets that people have had success with.

[Tony]

Hi Ellie. That’s really interesting and something I wasn’t aware of. Thank you

[JAC]

anyone got any pointers on tech ADVICE plse? i'm non-verbal so am super reliant on typing. have monitors, smart TVs, keyboards etc - but how to get them to talk to each other, where to site monitors best for me and viewers, future proofing etc. have gone round the houses with Assistive Tech sources - they seem to be keen WHEN i need whizzier equipment - but i just need someone with more IT knowledge than me to advice on best configuration for my current equipment. so frustrating...

[aussiegirl]

JAC Maybe get in touch with a local computer club, they are savvy in most tech and should be willing to help you out. Or a community help org.? Would this site be of help? https://www.gov.uk/find-a-community-...r-organisation