Wednesday, September 11, 2019

UATP inducts some new members into the 200 Club


 
devices grouped on a table
Pictured: the C-Pen reader, iRobot Roomba,
Liftware, My Notifi and Victor Reader Stream
We hear it again and again: disability is expensive.

So UATP is adding items to its demonstration and loan libraries in Logan and the Uintah Basin. Our hope is that people try a device and see if it works for them before they buy it. 

This summer, several items were inducted into not only the libraries, but the more exclusive 200 Club (that’s a group of devices that cost around $200 or more). They are available at both the Logan and Uintah Basin locations. To borrow an item from UATP in Logan, contact Dan O’Crowley. To borrow one from the Uintah Basin, contact Cameron Cressall. For a comprehensive look at our demonstration and loan library inventory, visit our website.

Here’s a look at the devices, what they do and how they might help. (None of the information below is intended as an endorsement—just information that might help in your assistive technology decisions.)

C-Pen Reader

This device can scan single words and define them, or scan whole lines and read them aloud. Useful for people with learning disabilities and reluctant readers. The Codpast offers a video review so you can see it in action.

iRobot Roomba 690 autonomous vacuum

We added this item after talking to professionals who serve seniors, who told us vacuuming can be a source of strain and injury to sensitive backs. This model will work with Alexa. 

Liftware silverware

These specialized silverware items have been in our libraries for a couple of years now. They come in two varieties. One, the Liftware Level, keeps the spoon or fork level for people with contractured hands (see this video review from Spashionista). The other, the Liftware Steady, helps counteract hand tremors. UATP did a quick introduction of both devices in 2017. 

My Notifi fall detection*

Worn like a watch, this system sends out a notification if it detects a fall. It also suggests exercises that can build strength and help prevent falls. KSAT 12 offers a video review.

Victor Readerstream

This pocket-sized device will access Library for the Blind materials, as well as DAISY books, MP3, MP4 and EPUB files. It is a pocket-sized device with large, high contrast buttons. To find out more, watch a video introduction on the Statewide Vision Resource Centre’s YouTube channel.

*A version of this system costs less than $200. 

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