Computer access can be improved by supportive seating and the right table height, we also have a range of specialist mice and keyboards. We can show you the standard computer access features to help when using your home tablet or computer.
eReaders can make books and news more accessible with a choice of illumination and font size and one button page-turning facility. The eReaders can also connect to a ‘voice assistant’ to read the book to you. Some people recreate this eReader function on their tablet or mobile phone, with eBooks available for purchase or from your local library, you can also borrow audiobooks from our local Devon libraries to listen to on your phone or tablet.
Phones may be difficult to use if you are unable to see, hear, hold or use the phone to make a call. We have landline phones set up at the Independent Living Centre so that you can check which style works best for you when holding, dialling, speaking and hearing when making a call. We also have some simple mobile phones and information about other accessible phones and phone features that make phone use easier.
Hobbies: We love to hear about your hobbies and have information about gadgets that could help you continue with your art or craft, including brackets to hold your camera, one-handed knitting devices and grip gloves for holding hobby equipment. If we find that the right gadget doesn’t exist then we can refer you on to REMAP a charity of OTs, technicians, carpenters and engineers who can make, adapt or invent the right gadget for you to continue with your hobby.
Sensory loss: Devon has some great local services to support people with sensory loss to find equipment and solutions to stay safe and independent at home.
Devon in Sight (Devon Association for the Blind): www.devoninsight.org.uk
Jasmyn House Sensory Resource Centre For Torbay residents (Sight & Hearing): 01803 527776
See Hear Centre Barnstaple For residents in Northern Devon (they cover North Devon and Torridge Districts) https://www.livingoptions.org/, 01271 373236
Sound Base: For Exeter and East Devon residents 01392 424018
National Charity The Thomas Pocklington Trust can give information and advice about gadgets and appliances to help anyone living with sight loss www.pocklington-trust.org.uk