As we step, roll, and dance our way into a new year, many of us set resolutions for personal growth and improvement. Here’s the good news: Assistive Technology (AT) can empower anyone to achieve their goals! Whether you’re looking to get healthy, stay organized, or start a hobby, there are AT tools designed to help you succeed. Let’s explore three popular resolutions, the AT options that can support them, and how FAAST is here to help you every step of the way.
A Healthy Body and Mind
The benefits of regular exercise and getting outside go beyond physical health – they extend to mental well-being as well. Physical activity releases endorphins, reduces stress, and improves sleep, all of which contribute to better emotional balance. By incorporating adaptive fitness tools into your routine, you’re not only supporting your body but also nurturing your mind.
Adaptive exercise equipment, such as handcycles, adapted treadmills, or resistance bands with grips, allow people with limited mobility to engage in physical activity safely and effectively. Wearable devices that offer speech output or vibration alerts help track heart rate, steps, and calories burned, providing valuable insights without relying solely on visual feedback.
Fitness apps with voice-guided workouts are a game-changer for individuals with visual impairments, enabling them to follow exercise routines without visual cues. For those with cognitive disabilities, simplified fitness trackers with visual prompts and reminders can encourage regular exercise and healthy habits.
Stay Organized
Feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks? Assistive technology offers practical tools to streamline routines and simplify task management. Staying organized can be challenging, but with the right AT, it’s entirely possible to take control of your schedule.
Digital planners with customizable alerts, color-coded scheduling apps, and task management tools are particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD or executive functioning challenges. These tools keep important tasks front and center, helping users stay on track.
And let’s not forget about smart home technologies and other voice-controlled assistants! These tools make managing the household like adjusting lights, controlling the thermostat, or locking doors more accessible for individuals with physical disabilities. For those with memory impairments, auditory reminders for appointments, medications, and duties can help you rest easy knowing that important things won’t slip through the cracks.
Embark on a Creative Hobby
Pursuing a hobby is a great way to reduce stress, spark joy, and explore new interests. Assistive technology makes creative hobbies more accessible for everyone, no matter their ability level.
For aspiring artists with physical disabilities, adaptive paintbrushes, hands-free easels, and digital drawing tablets with voice controls can open new doors to artistic expression. Musicians can benefit from adapted instruments or software that translate touch into music, making it possible for anyone to play and compose.
Writers and storytellers with vision impairments can use screen readers and voice-to-text software to bring their ideas to life. For individuals with cognitive disabilities, hobby-focused apps with step-by-step instructions and visual cues can simplify learning new skills.
Engaging in a hobby not only provides a creative outlet but also builds confidence and social connections. With the right assistive tools, everyone can unleash their creativity and pursue passions that bring them joy.
How FAAST Can Help You Achieve Your Goals
Whatever your New Year’s resolution, FAAST is here to support you on your journey. We don’t just recommend technology—we ensure you know how to use it effectively. Through our FREE services, we help individuals find the right tools to reach their goals:
Training & Demonstrations: Our team provides hands-on opportunities to explore various assistive technologies, so you can find the right tool to reach your goals.
Device Loans: We operate like a library, allowing you to take AT tools home and test them in your daily life before making a commitment to purchase. Delivered straight to your door!
New Horizons Loan Program (NHLP): If purchasing is your next step, our low-interest loan program makes assistive technology more affordable.
With the right tools and guidance, there’s no limit to what you can achieve in 2025! Let FAAST be your partner in turning resolutions into reality.
Kailey Medlock,
FAAST’s Training & Community Development Director