News

Help Knows No Borders

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ASI Makes a Difference in Canada

Help Knows No BordersMrs. Carmen Cels, a caregiver and advocate for her husband Mike who has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), wanted to improve Mike’s quality of life by incorporating a bed mount. She reached out to Brice Green, ASI’s VP of Business Development, to learn more about the autonoME Bed Mount and whether it was available for purchase in Canada.

Brice knew there would be some red tape involved with selling her a bed mount since ASI does not currently sell products in Canada. However, he was so touched by Carmen and Mike’s story that he and Team ASI in the Homosassa, Florida office decided to donate an autonoME Bed Mount to them.

Brice immediately got to work. He drafted the necessary paperwork and then prepared Carmen to be able to install the bed mount herself. He then reached out to Ken Wogman, ASI’s metal fabricator, and asked him to supply a custom part that would allow Carmen to attach Mike’s current device receiver to the autonoME Bed Mount. Then, he contacted the manufacturer of the mounting hardware to ask for assistance with adapting Mike’s device with the receiver. After discovering that Carmen and Mike live close to the manufacturer, a rep from the manufacturer was happy to come to their home and help them install the receiver.

“We truly do what we do because we want to help people,” explains Brice. “Yes, we are a business and we have to cover our overhead, but our mission is toHelp Knows No Borders make a difference, and our mission always comes first.”

Mike is enjoying the benefits of having the bed mount, and Carmen is happy to see the difference it’s made. Thank you for your kind words, Carmen!

 “My husband Mike and I live in Canada and reached out to Accessibility Services, Inc. after seeing the Bed Mount on their website. Mike has ALS and we thought this device might be helpful for him. We discovered that there isn’t an equivalent product locally unless we ordered an expensive custom piece. 

 After our inquiry, Brice was so incredibly responsive, kindly offering to send us a free mount, since they aren’t selling to Canada right now.  He stayed in touch, was proactive, and responded to our many questions.  We determined that the mount might not be compatible with Mike’s existing eyegaze tablet hardware.  So, Brice reached out to the people here who built mount systems, and between the two companies, they found a solution!

Brice and his team sent us an easy-to-assemble mount; didn’t charge us for shipping, or any hidden fees! Such an incredibly kind gesture. Our local mount guy also ended up donating the needed part for compatibility and his time to assist with set-up.

Later, we had trouble tightening a joint, and Brice managed our ‘fix’ by phoning me to walk through the issue. The mount does what it needs to do and is very convenient. So much easier than trying to adjust a floor mounted model. We feel so lucky to have reached out to Brice and think that they care tremendously for their clients.  They understand the need and the impact they provide.  We are so impressed.” – Mrs. Carmen Cels

 

Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers in Honor of a Brave Firefighter’s End of Watch

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Team ASI members Amber Byrd, Arthur Eppig, Carrie Acker Hutchinson, Lisa Swiger and their families participated in the Tunnel to Towers 5K in Brooksville, Florida on November 9th. They’ve raised $1230 so far to help this worthy cause that was especially important to our late Founder, Fred Thompson.

Team ASI participated in honor of Carrie Hutchinson’s brother, Matthew, a former firefighter in Toledo, Ohio. Carrie began organizing a team for the event, with her brother as her inspiration. Sadly, shortly after she registered Team ASI, she received news of Matthew’s passing.

Matthew was described as a brave person who lived for others. He was also kind, hard-working, and generous. He is deeply missed by everyone who knew him and whose lives he touched. Team ASI proudly wore race bibs with Matthew’s name on them as they walked/ran in honor of him.

Proceeds from the Tunnel to Towers 5K supports our nation’s fallen and catastrophically injured first responders, military heroes and their families.

Learn more about Tunnel to Towers.

Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers
Team ASI Raises Money for Tunnel to Towers

 

Take Me Out to the Lou Gehrig Day Ballgame

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Navigating Air Travel With a Wheelchair

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Navigating Air Travel With a Wheelchair

Airlines Must Comply with ADA Requirements; There Are Also Steps You Can Take To Ensure All of Your Needs Are Met

Traveling by air should be a seamless and enjoyable experience for all passengers, including individuals with disabilities. However, wheelchair users often face a myriad of concerns and anxieties when flying:

  • How will I get to my seat?
  • Will they lose or damage my wheelchair?
  • Can I use the restroom on the plane?
  • Will they leave me on the plane?
  • What if I miss my connecting flight?
  • Is my oxygenator FAA approved?
  • What if we have to change routes because of weather and batteries in my oxygenator machine die?
  • What if the person sitting next to me is impatient with me because my needs differ from theirs?

These are all valid concerns. The good news is that all domestic airlines must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations on airplanes to ensure a safe and accommodating journey for everyone. The Air Carrier Access Act outlines specific requirements for airlines to follow in order to provide equal access to air travel for individuals with disabilities. Additionally, various advocacy groups, including All Wheels Up and Paralyzed Veterans of America, are actively working to improve flight travel experienced for wheelchair users and their caregivers and families.

Before embarking on your journey, there are some steps you and/or your caregivers can take to help ensure you have a pleasant, smooth, comfortable, and safe flight. Let’s take a closer look:

Pre-Flight Preparations

Requesting accommodations and alerting the airline of your needs should be done in advance to allow the airline to make necessary arrangements. This includes informing the airline of any mobility limitations or specific requests you may have during your travel.

Accessible Seats

Accessible seating options are available on most flights to accommodate passengers with disabilities. These seats are designed to provide additional space and easy access for individuals with mobility devices. It’s crucial to communicate your seating preferences and requirements to the airline when booking your ticket to secure the most suitable seat for your needs.

Security and TSA

Navigating security checkpoints and boarding procedures can be challenging for anyone, especially travelers in wheelchairs. It’s recommended to arrive at the airport early to allow ample time for security screening and boarding. Informing the airline staff of any assistance needed during these processes will ensure a smoother experience from check-in to boarding the aircraft.

Medical Equipment & Medications

If you need access to any type of medical equipment during your flight, be sure to call and inform airline staff prior to your flight. For instance, while oxygen tanks are not permitted on board, oxygenators may be used in flight, but they must be FAA approved. These units can be rented ahead of time from a medical equipment provider. Be sure any medications you need either in-flight or during your trip are placed in your carry-on baggage and stowed either under your seat or in the overhead compartment for ready access.

In-Flight Accommodations

Once onboard the aircraft, don’t be afraid to ask your flight attendants about the various accommodations they may have available to ensure your comfort and safety during the flight. Accessible lavatories are available on some airplanes to accommodate individuals with mobility limitations. Call buttons are also provided to alert the flight attendants in case of assistance or emergencies.

Communication With Flight Crew is Key

Communication with your flight crew is essential to ensure that your needs are met throughout the flight. Be sure to ask for assistance or clarification on any in-flight services or procedures. Clear communication will help your flight crew provide the necessary support to make your journey more enjoyable.

Scan the Plane

Be sure to familiarize yourself with the layout of the plane. Flight attendants are trained to assist passengers with disabilities in moving around the aircraft and accessing necessary facilities during the flight.

Bring Your Service Animal

Under the ADA guidelines, service animals are permitted to accompany individuals with disabilities on airplanes. It’s important to inform the airline in advance if you will be traveling with a service animal to ensure appropriate accommodations are made. Be prepared to provide the necessary paperwork and follow the guidelines set forth by the airline when traveling with service animals. Ensuring compliance with the airline’s regulations will help avoid any issues during the flight.

Arrival and Disembarkation

Upon arrival at your destination, assistance is available for passengers with disabilities to ensure a seamless transition from the aircraft to the terminal. Be sure to request wheelchair assistance in advance or upon arrival to help you with disembarking the plane and navigating the airport.

Connecting Flights

Connecting flights should be carefully planned to allow sufficient time for transfers and ensure a smooth journey to your final destination. Airlines offer services to help passengers with disabilities transfer between flights and provide necessary support during layovers.

Ground Transportation

Ground transportation staff at the airport are available to assist you with in finding accessible ground transportation options.

As airlines continue to improve accessibility and accommodations for passengers with disabilities, it’s important to advocate for equal access and inclusive travel experiences for all individuals. By prioritizing ADA compliance and implementing best practices for accommodating passengers with disabilities, airlines are creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all travelers.

Remember, when flying, it’s essential to communicate your needs and preferences to the airline in advance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Actively working with airline staff, the flight crew, and fellow passengers helps ensure an inclusive and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Happy traveling!!

Celebrate the Luck of the Irish

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Celebrate the Luck of the Irish

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner and your autonoME can help you make the most out of this fun holiday! Here are some ideas:

  • Find a local spot hosting St. Patrick’s Day bingo
  • Attend a St. Patrick’s Day parade
  • Volunteer as a greeter at a local St. Patrick’s day celebration
  • Search online for a St. Patrick’s Day treasure hunt in your area
  • Find your favorite recipe online
  • Stream a movie on your autonoME – here are some ideas: Irish Themed Movies
  • Wear green!

A Guide to Accessible Halloween Costumes for Wheelchair Users

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A Guide to Accessible Halloween Costumes for Wheelchair Users

September 20, 2023

It’s October in just a few short days and you know what that means; time to start planning your next award-winning costume!

Whether you’re more of a spooky costume person, or you prefer the fun and whimsical, we’ve got some tricks and treats to keep your Halloween spook-tacularly accessible.

Creative & Adaptive DIY Costume Ideas

Maybe you’re headed to a local Fall Festival, or gathering with friends and family, perhaps you’re on candy duty. No matter your plans for Halloween, dressing up can be fun for everyone.

Looking for that perfect fit, but not sure where to begin? Sometimes all you need to do is take a look around the room! This year it’s all about DIY. Check out these awesome ideas to get in the spirit.

  • Mermaid
    When it comes to transforming into a mermaid it’s all about you and the details. In a pinch, you can always use blankets or Snuggies shaped as mermaid tails to stay warm, then decorate your chair with nautical themed items like rope, fish, seashells, and anything else that reminds you of life under the sea!
  • Game Show Contestant
    Game show participants wear their own clothes, making this an easy costume for anyone. Just add the right accessories and you’re on your way to being a WINNER! Want to be on the Price is Right? All you need is some colorful construction paper, ribbon, and cardboard. Cut out a price tag from yellow construction paper and write your name on it and pin it to your shirt. Then grab your cardboard and green construction paper, write your winning bid, and fasten it around you with some ribbon. Always dreamed of singing your heart out on American Idol? It’s as easy as 1, 2, print! Just print their logo on a white sheet of paper, add some  numbers, and pin it to your shirt. Bonus points if you can add a golden ticket or microphone.
  • Bubble Bath
    Splish splash! All you need is blue and white balloons to make this costume fresh and clean. After they’re all blown up, attach them all around you and your chair. Then, grab your rubber ducky, shower cap, and loofah, and enjoy the festivities.
  • DJ
    Ready to spin the night away on the 1’s and 2’s? Then put on your headphones and let’s rock! Exercise your creativity with this costume by decorating a cardboard box to make your custom DJ booth and fit it around your chair. Go as bold as you’d like with battery powered lights, cardboard vinyls, or maybe you’re entertaining the crowd with your laptop. In this accessible costume, you’ll be 2 legit 2 quit!
  • Raining Cats & Dogs
    If puns are your thing, then this costume idea is right up your alley, cat! You’re going to need an umbrella, some ribbons, and well, some cats and dogs. When it comes to your furry accessories you can either print and cut out pictures of cats and dogs, or if you’ve got a few stuffed animals lying around, those will work too.  Tie the ribbon around your cut-outs or stuffed animals, then attach them to the inside of your umbrella. Then, have a friend attach your umbrella to your chair.

Where to find accessible & adaptive costumes?

DIY not for you? Or, maybe you’re looking for the perfect accessories? We’ve found some awesome retailers that carry accessible and adaptive costumes, as well as the perfect final details for any costume.

  1. Target
  2. Hyde & Eek!
  3. Spirit Halloween
  4. Family Halloween Store

Looking for more spooky inspiration?

If you need a little more inspiration before you get started, check these out:

 

Don’t forget to share your Halloween spirit with Team ASI by sharing your costume on our Facebook page!

Remote Work: Changing the Office Landscape, Creating More Accessibility for People with Disabilities

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Remote Work: Changing the Office Landscape

August 30, 2023

Labor Day is just around the corner, so let’s talk labor (i.e., the workplace), how it’s changed, and the opportunities that Remote Work has created for individuals living with disabilities.

Recent data shows the number of people with disabilities finding gainful, accessible employment is increasing. Disability advocates are pointing to the rise in remote work options.

autonoME users who are unable to travel to a physical job site have a distinct advantage when it comes to working from home. The autonoME offers full computing and communication capabilities that can be tailored to meet both their needs and the needs of employers.

In August, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ monthly report on employment indicated that approximately 6.3 million individuals with disabilities from ages 16 to 64 were employed the previous month. This report highlights an increase of about 700,000 employment opportunities filled by people with disabilities when compared with July 2022. This, after the previous increase from September 2021 to September 2022 of about 500,000, seems to reveal a correlation between the growth in jobs being filled by individuals with disabilities and the rise in remote work culture.

“The rising employment numbers for people with disabilities is an extremely positive, encouraging sign that will hopefully continue,” said Amy E. Scherer of the National Disability Rights Network. “The subsequent labor shortage in the wake of the [COVID-19] pandemic has also likely had an impact.”

Remote work has proven to be an accessible option for people with disabilities and has assisted them in finding and maintaining employment, according to Maryland-based lawyer and community relations manager to accessiBe (web-based accessibility hub), Josh Basile.

“There is no hiding the fact that thanks to the pandemic, remote work played a key role in the rising statistics of workers with disabilities,” Basille said. “Remote work is a great reasonable accommodation for both workers with and without disabilities.”

Return to Office Mandates? What are Workers with Disabilities Saying?

Basile has lived with quadriplegia since 2004. That’s the year he experienced a severe spinal cord injury that left him paralyzed just below the shoulders. He, like many autonoME Users, relies on assistive technology, customized computers, and the Internet to perform daily tasks and many of his job responsibilities.

Basile says that remote work has allowed him and others within the disabled community to avoid the stressful obstacles that can come with commuting to the office.

“Unreliable transportation to and from work creates major barriers and unnecessary loss of time,” says Basile. “The bottom line is that remote work WORKS and it helps people with disabilities to work at their highest levels by creating a more barrier-free environment.”

Scherer noted that people living with physical disabilities have struggled to maintain jobs due to difficulties traveling to the office for years. However remote work has given these employees a chance to secure steady work, especially in rural areas without reliable public transportation.

“Remote work can also be advantageous for individuals with disabilities who have stamina issues,” she said. “For example, it may be easier for remote workers to take short breaks or briefly step away from their workspace when working remotely.”

Harvard University cited reports showing employees with and without disabilities who work remotely are often more productive, and prefer remote work, because it provides them with more flexibility, a better work/life balance, and allows them to save on commuting expenses.

Flexibility. Work/Life Balance. Remote Work.

According to Josh Basile, employers that are asking workers to return to the office may not realize the impact for workers with disabilities. Returning to the office can be both positive and negative depending on the employee, the industry, the business itself, and any barriers that exist.

“This should be looked at on a case-by-case basis,” explained Basile. “For some, this could be detrimental and for others, it could be for the best. Not all workers with disabilities want to work remotely. Many, like myself do prefer working from home or through a hybrid approach.”

Scherer, who is the senior staff attorney for vocational rehabilitation with the National Disability Rights Network explains that if remote work proves effective for employees with disabilities, it could be a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Scherer implores companies to continue to offer flexibility in the workplace, not just for employees with disabilities, but for everyone.

“Each person’s individual, specific circumstances would need to be examined to see if such an accommodation would be appropriate,” she said. “Hopefully, though, the pandemic has helped many employers to realize that coming to an office building each and every day is not necessarily the key to having productive employees.”

Whether you work from home or at an office/job site, Team ASI is here for you. If you already have an autonoME and are seeking job opportunities, contact your Product Representative to discuss how the autonoME can be customized to help you perform your work duties. If you are not an autonoME user and want to learn more about how it can help you achieve independence at home AND open up new job opportunities, we would love to talk with you. Please reach out and we will have one of our Product Representatives contact you today!

Fall for Pumpkin Season with Accessible Activities

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Fall for Pumpkin Season with Accessible Activities

August 22, 2023

Are you ready to fall for autumn?

Fall is just around the corner, bringing with it sweater weather, cozy nights, festive decor, and colorful foliage. Whether it’s the changing of the leaves that you love, or you’re already excited about Halloween, there are plenty of accessible ways to enjoy the year’s most popular season:

Start the car & enjoy the scenery. Maybe you’re in the mood for a road trip, or a drive around the block. Taking a drive to check out some breathtaking fall foliage is a great accessible way to enjoy the autumn season. Check out this interactive 2023 Fall Foliage Prediction Map to see when and where peak colors are expected.

Spice it up in the kitchen. Fall is the perfect time to fine-tune those chili spices or try a new apple or pumpkin treat. Maybe it’s an old family recipe, or you want to make something from scratch!

It’s never too early to start on your Halloween costume. Just because you may not be trick-or-treating this year doesn’t mean you have to skip out on creating a great costume. Check out this list of Easy and Accessible Halloween Costumes from Mobility Works.

Decorate your space with homemade fall crafts. Exercise your DIY skills with a custom wreath, or grab some mason jars, twinkle lights, and burlap to create a beautiful fall-themed piece for your mantle or table. Here’s a list from Country Living to spark your creativity.

Stream a scary movie with Netflix on your autonoME. Who doesn’t love a virtual scary movie marathon? The popcorn. The spooky sounds. The laughter as you and your friends and family catch each other jumping at each twist in the plot! autonoME Users can sign-in and stream movies and shows on Netflix right from their device. Need help getting started? Check out our video autonoME User Guide: Netflix.

Carve pumpkins with friends & family. Carving pumpkins is a fall classic! Whether your gourds are from the local pumpkin patch or the grocery store, picking the perfect one and imagining what it will be is exciting and quintessentially autumn. And now, there are so many options! Knives and seed-scooping not your thing? Look for pumpkin decorating stickers online or at your favorite hobby store. If decorating pumpkins feels daunting, host a contest with friends and family. Create categories, judge everyone’s creativity and skills, and give prizes to the winners.

These are just a few options for accessible fall activities, but the possibilities are endless! From staying cozy at home, to getting out and exploring, or spending time with friends and family, this fall, there’s something for everyone.

Accessible Memorial Day Activities

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Accessible Memorial Day Activities

Memorial Day is a time to recognize the brave United States armed forces service members who made the ultimate sacrifice by giving their lives for their country. Accessibility Services, Inc. (ASI) is passionate about recognizing all those who have served, but we hold a very special place in our hearts for those who perished in the line of duty.

Team ASI will be honoring military heroes in various ways this Memorial Day. We encourage you to also take this day to remember and honor those who have perished. We’ve made a list of accessible Memorial Day activities to help you participate in this cherished day of remembrance.

Donate flowers to a soldier’s grave

This is a great activity for everyone – including caregivers and family members – to participate in to honor our country’s fallen military heroes. The Memorial Day Flowers Foundation needs volunteers to place flowers in front of headstones at National Cemeteries throughout the country. As each flower is placed, volunteers quietly read the inscription and thank the deceased military member for their service and sacrifice.

Help build a home for a Veteran

Building Homes for Heroes has volunteer opportunities for everyone. This nationwide partnership of communities and corporations work together to make our country a better place by serving our nation’s heroes. Building Homes for Heroes hopes to reach 343 homes by Sept. 11, 2023 – in honor of the 343 FDNY firefighters who died on 9/11 – and a milestone 400th home by 2024.

Shop at a Veteran-Owned business

Supporting Veteran-Owned businesses is easy and helps support those who have served. Additionally, it’s an opportunity to shop local and support your community. Simply conduct a Google search for “veteran owned businesses near me” to get started.

Learn to play a patriotic song or create your own playlist

Dust off your six-string and practice strumming a patriotic tune!  Use the autonoME to browse YouTube for your favorite songs like, “God Bless the USA.”  Echoes of Heroes also has some great resources. Check out their video gallery of original patriotic songs.

Watch the PBS Memorial Day Concert

You can watch this special concert to commemorate service members who have perished in the line of duty live from your autonoME on Sunday May 28th.

Click to Stream

Take a virtual tour of the White House

Technology gives us the opportunity to experience places we might otherwise not be able to see. Head to Google Arts & Culture to tour historical American places, including the White House.

Make your own Memorial Day poppy

Poppies, specifically red poppies, are worn to commemorate the sacrifices made during wartime by U.S. soldiers. Making a Memorial Day poppy pin is fun and easy. There are many online resources outlining how to do it. Here is one of our faves.

Write letters to soldiers

A Million Thanks supports active duty military and their families by sending cards and letters of appreciation to U.S. service members around the world.

Pack care packages for soldiers

Operation Gratitude has delivered nearly four million care packages to members of the United States military and first responders over the past 20 years.

Donate or Volunteer

Adopt a soldier

Ladies of Liberty supports women who are serving overseas. Soldier Angels are needed to help provide personal care items (i.e., lotion, body wash, hairbands, shampoo, etc.) as well a leisure materials such as books, magazines, adult coloring books, etc.

Attend a Memorial Day parade

Memorial Day parades occur in most major cities and in many suburban areas throughout the country. Simply conduct a quick Google search for “Memorial Day parades and activities near me” to find out what is happening in your area. Oh, and don’t forget to wear your paper poppy pin you made!

Participate in the Veterans Heritage Project

The Veterans Heritage Project connects students with veterans to help preserve their stories for generations to come. Scholarship opportunities are available for participating students. Get involved by making a donation or volunteering.

Watch Films

Watch films like Black Hawk Down, Megan Leavey & Max, and Saving Private Ryan – based on the lives of real service members, their courage, and the sacrifice’s they’ve made for their country.

Cemetery Visit

Visit your local cemetery and volunteer to leave flags on the graves of soldiers.

Share

Try a new recipe and share with friends and neighbors, holding a moment of silence for fallen service members.

Donate to the USO

The USO was founded more than 80 years ago and still stands strong today. Consider supporting this worthy cause that provides various types of support to active duty service members.

Software Update: Customized Speech Rates

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Software Update Customized Speech Rates

In our latest update of the autonoME software, our engineers have created an option for End Users to manage and customize the rate at which their automated speech plays back ranging from fast, medium, and slow, as well as a default setting.

The update was inspired by the real-life experience of an autonoME user who is currently using the platform as an alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) device, Ken Thompson. Mr. Thompson spoke with one of our team members, Delaney Shepherd, during an in-service visit. He expressed the importance of having his new voice, generated by the autonoME device, speak with a cadence that better resembles his own. Mr. Thompson’s insight into the importance of working with users to create a voice that feels more like their own served as an “Ah-Ha” moment for our team. He currently relies on the autonoME to communicate with his co-workers during meetings but there are numerous other ways this can be beneficial.

Effective communication is extremely important to our End Users. Now, autonoME users have more options and are able to mirror their natural speaking timbre by adjusting the speed at which the augmentative speech is played back.

“Start with the customer and work backwards.”

Fred Thompson

See why clients, therapists, and caregivers choose Accessibility Services for their Environmental Control and Communication needs.

Accessibility Services

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