For those affected by a disability, even the smallest tasks may require some additional support. But in the busy world of today, not everyone has the time or means to receive that support, especially on short notice.
Smartphone apps are one way that disabled people can both seek and receive help in moments of need, as well as simplify daily tasks that would be otherwise challenging. Many of them are free or very affordable, and easy to download and operate.
Almost everyone has a smartphone, and there is now a wide variety of top-notch applications that disabled people can access to make their lives easier.
WheelMap
The WheelMap app is designed with wheelchair users in mind. For many wheelchair users, arriving at a new destination for the first time can be a gamble, as wheelchair-friendly facilities may not always be available.
With WheelMap, users have access to a map that highlights where wheelchair-friendly places are (such as restaurants, gas stations, shopping centers, etc.), thus eliminating the chance of them arriving somewhere that cannot accommodate them.
The map installed on WheelMap itself can be edited by users in real-time, allowing them to upload pictures of the facilities and leave comments behind about the quality of their experience.
This enables wheelchair users to both connect with other disabled people and give them the opportunity to share important information with one another. WheelMap is available on both Apple iOS and Android.
Fuel Service
A common issue facing disabled people is the inability to refuel their cars at gas stations. Although FuelService is only applicable to those living in the UK, this app is designed to show users a map of gas stations that provide additional support for disabled people.
Through FuelService, users can rest assured knowing that the gas station they arrive at will be able to help them tend to their car’s needs without even getting out of the vehicle.
Through the FuelService app, attendants are notified in advance of when to expect the disabled user, and the user themselves are given an estimate of how long they can be expected to wait before being served at the gas station. This app is available on Android and Apple iOS devices.
AssistiveTouch
For some disabled people, even the act of using a smartphone may be a struggle. Accessing different apps requires a certain level of fine motor skills and hand dexterity, which are abilities that not everyone is born with.
AssistiveTouch is an application that solves this problem. By allowing users to create their own commands and actions, managing and utilizing the other apps on their smartphone without needing to find them in the traditional way.
This app is highly customizable and therefore caters to each user’s individual physical needs, eliminating frustrations during smartphone usage and making the lives of disabled people much easier to manage. They may even be able to enjoy games like online bingo for cash in this way.
These three apps really promote the idea of accessible technology by making sure everyone is included and accommodated when it comes to new tech developments around the world.
