OT’s Favourite Smartphone Features

Occupational therapists are all about adapting everyday items to make the world more accessible🌟 A smartphone can be a powerful tool for boosting independence!

Here are some free smartphone features our OT, Chanelle, loves to recommend:

📱Widgets can be used as a larger display calendar or visual routine to support memory and attention.

⏰Reminder apps allow you to set alarms and reminders for medication, appointments, or daily tasks.

✅Use emojis instead of words if you prefer visuals.

🗣️Voice assistants like Siri or Google Home can help remind you to do something when you get home, to work or at a specific time.

📝Notes app can be be used to create to-do list, like a shopping list. You may be able to share this with a household member, and tick off items as you go.

📺Screen sharing to a smart TV to zoom in on documents, photos and messaging apps.

📚Library app e.g. Libby or Borrowbox: for free audiobooks and e-books (you can edit the text size and highlight).

🔉Sound Recognition will alert your phone if there’s a knock at the door, the baby is crying or the microwave is done!

What other free, already built-in apps do you use to make life just that little bit easier? 💡