I am a Nerd, loud and proud and one of the common things I find with my clients is that they get bored, at home all day, not seeing many people, small social circles, declining health and many other factors are key factors in social isolation. However, it doesn't need to be. Using modern technology, we as humans are more connected than ever, via social media, telephone, video and electronic communication. So, I use this to introduce my clients to gaming, to social groups, to platforms that allow clients to write down their thoughts, to paint using a mouse or even in more advanced cases, created worlds, maps and stories for books or role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons. When I first started talking to clients about my regular Dungeon and Dragons sessions with my friends, I thought i would be met with a bit of ridicule, laughter and humor. Instead, I have had entirely positive responses and that blew my mind, Clients were inquisitive, asked questions and were genuinely interested in learning more. Some i sat with and created digital characters with them using platforms like D&D beyond. allowing them to bring out a small piece of their inner child. Some were afraid as it was one more thing they had to try to learn and so smaller steps were taken, I shared stories of my adventures with them, and by doing so i gained connection and report. Give it a go, find something interesting, whether it's mainstream or a bit left field and share it with your client's or loved ones, some may not work but trial and error is the key and eventually you will find something that can enrich their lives.

CES is Consumer Electronics Show in China, It is the worlds largest Technology show each year. Here is an interesting video from The Blind Life - YouTube, that shows a few of the exciting and innovative technology systems that are being developed. credit - The Blind Life

As Carers, Teachers, Clients and people living with disability, what is the most effective way for you to take time for yourself? To debrief and let go of some of the worries, anxiety, frustration and concern that we all deal with every day. Personally, I like to create, whether it's through digital or computer-based creation, Fictional characters, worlds, ai generating images, 3d printing and painting. and of course creating information videos and teaching. Using technology can be a massive cause of frustration for some but on the flip side it can also be a method of escape, a way to leave your troubles behind for a while and enter another world. Let me know your favorite method for relaxing or escaping the reality of our day to day lives. You will be surprised how much technology has an influence on even our relaxation time nowadays.

Here is a TEDx Talk that really inspired me to further my understanding and awareness of assistive technology, The transformative power of availability and access to it. Credit : TEDx Talks - Youtube - TEDx Talks - YouTube

I have recently been working with an Alzheimer's client and she has a speech pathologist that heavily utilizes an iPad with a variety of apps to assist her client to verbalize and practice. The client is also now using the iPad to prompt her when her brain fuzz disallows her to find the right words which leads to progressive frustration. While her condition is degrading, it is good to see small wins along the way.