Lance Pounds, our Tech Access Initiative Group Leader, is a passionate advocate for adaptive tech and accessibility. He reviewed five assistive tech devices that will make life easier around the house.
Amazon’s Echo Pop
Right now, I’m using an Echo Pop in my office, and I’ve found it to be exceptional. It’s great at picking up my non-typical voice (I have cerebral palsy) and has impressive directional sound. Positioned near the shelf by the door, it also does a fantastic job canceling out noise from outside the room.
I’ve been through many iterations of Echo speakers, but this one is the best by far. I am proud that Amazon supports our Tech Access Council.
Food Delivery Robots
You may not think that food delivery robots fit into assistive technology, but they absolutely do. Let’s face it: cooking while using a wheelchair can be frustrating. The benefits are clear for those lucky enough to live in areas with food delivery services—even more so when robots handle the delivery.
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TV Screen Viewing Glasses
Here’s a badass device that lets you watch TV while lying down! These TV screen viewing glasses use prism lenses to project the screen into your line of sight, so you don’t need to crane your neck or sit up. These glasses are an affordable and fun addition to your assistive tech toolkit, perfect for anyone looking to relax or reduce strain.
Appliance Add-ons
In 2023, LG introduced the Universal UP Kit, a collection of add-ons designed to make its appliances more accessible. One standout tool allows a person to open a washing machine using their wrists instead of their hands—an incredible solution for quadriplegics or anyone who struggles with fine motor tasks.
Despite its introduction, the kit hasn’t yet been made available to the public. It would be a shame if this remained just a concept and never made it to market because real people need real products and services. We’ll keep an eye on developments and advocate for products like this that prioritize real-world accessibility.
Carbonating Water Bottle
At CES 2025, the Roam Water Bottle stole the spotlight. This innovative bottle features a built-in mini oxygen canister that transforms tap water into bubbly, carbonated water on the go. For individuals with dysphagia—difficulty swallowing—this could be a game-changer.
The carbonation helps make swallowing easier, offering more freedom to be out and about without the constant worry of choking, much like a straw does.
Interestingly, many people don’t know about this “life hack” of using carbonation to assist with swallowing. The Roam Water Bottle not only brings this solution to the masses but does so in a more environmentally friendly way than single-use water bottles. It’s also easier to operate than devices like SodaStream, which requires fine motor skills that many people may not have.
With accessibility, sustainability, and usability combined, this product could redefine independence for many. We’ll be watching closely for its release and potential impact!
United Spinal Association’s Tech Access Initiative brings wheelchair users and community partners together to ensure that technology is inclusive and accessible to everyone.
