At the Intersection of Independence & Safety

Thursday, December 19, 2019 - 07:18
At the intersection of independence and safety

Many people think nothing of going out in the community to run errands, or engage in interests. For individuals with both seen and unseen disabilities or conditions (as well as their family members or caregivers), a real worry or anxiety may exist preventing independent outings.

“What if something happens and I’m not there to help control the situation?” or “What happens if I have a seizure while I’m out—how will I get help?”

Questions like these are now being answered by incorporating assistive technology devices used to increase access to the community for people with disabilities by increasing their confidence and ability to utilize natural supports. It all comes down to dignity of risk, of which Hammer Residences is no stranger.

 

 

Read the full case study on the TRC

 

 

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Many people think nothing of going out in the community to run errands or engage in interests. For individuals with both seen and unseen disabilities or conditions (as well as their family members or caregivers), real worry or anxiety may exist preventing independent outings. Learn how Hammer implemented a small piece of technology to provide greater independence for individuals in their apartment program.

Though experiencing health issues that would ultimately require her to need more intensive care, including possible round-the-clock assistance, Angie wanted to maintain her independence and continue to live on her own without being reliant on a staff person constantly in her home.

As people served were expressing a stronger desire to be more independent, Dungarvin staff thought through scenarios on how to navigate both the independence desire and how they would provide services in the future. Technology was their answer.

The thinking is changing around what “accessible” can mean and the role technology can play.

An exploration of technology support options began when a group of men with developmental disabilities expressed their desires for increased privacy and independence.