Parents with neurodivergent children or people who are neurodivergent frequently struggle to adapt to our world.
Adults who have been diagnosed find ways to manage, whereas those who have not been diagnosed find it difficult to relate to the environment.
The word “neurodivergent” refers to people whose brain variances influence how their brain functions. That implies they have distinct talents and difficulties from those whose brains do not differ in this way. Medical problems, learning difficulties, and other circumstances are examples of probable differences.
A keen eye for detail and hyperfocus are two skills that neurodivergent people may have: Having neurodiverse points of view, like having diverse opinions generally, enables a team to be more innovative in their solutions. However, these people have limitations that assistive technology can help with.
Assistive technology (AT) refers to devices or systems that help and aid people who are neurodivergent or have disabilities.
Hidden disabilities or learning difficulties such as ADHD, autism, ADD, and dyslexia are examples. AT can also benefit those with limited mobility or other limitations by allowing them to complete tasks that would otherwise be challenging or unattainable.
Some of the assistive tools include:
Communication Aids
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, speech-to-text software, and text-to-speech technologies are examples.
They assist people who have problems communicating verbally with properly expressing themselves. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) is a sort of assistive technology that promotes independence, expands communication, and increases social connection in individuals who have autism of all ages.
Visual aids
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that influences numerous kids and even adults daily.
ADHD characteristics such as impulsiveness, restlessness, and inattentiveness can make it difficult for students and adults with ADHD to focus and remember knowledge in a regular classroom setting.
Individuals with autism or ADHD can benefit from visual assistance such as visual schedules, social stories, and picture-based communication systems in comprehending and following routines, directions, and social interactions.
Text and reading resources
For dyslexic people, technology offers possibilities and opportunities to express their expertise in previously inconceivable ways, all while contributing to the workplace.
To assist individuals with reading issues or dyslexia, assistive technology can include capabilities such as text-to-speech, configurable fonts, and dyslexia-friendly formatting.
Tools for concentration and organization
Organization and time management are challenging skills to master, particularly for people suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Working memory problems are common in people with ADHD, making it challenging to finish tasks, pay attention, plan activities, remain on track, and do other activities.
This adds to the difficulties that people with ADHD face regarding organization and time management.
Individuals with ADHD or executive functioning issues can benefit from task and time management apps, reminder systems, and noise-canceling headphones to help them stay organized, manage their time, and concentrate.
Sensory assistance devices
As part of creating an inclusive culture in your organization, one of the most effective things you can do to assist neurodivergent workers is to reduce sensory overload.
This will not only demonstrate inclusivity but will also assist persons who are neurodivergent in becoming more productive.
Weighted blankets, sensory toys, fidget tools, and noise-canceling headphones are examples of items that can help people with sensory processing issues regulate their sensory experiences.
Developing social skills
Autistic people often have trouble with socialization and communication. Researchers studied the use of virtual reality (VR) as a behavioral modification technique to assist young people with autism in improving their abilities to communicate and participate in social circumstances.
Virtual reality (VR) programs and social skills training software can provide virtual surroundings and interactive situations to allow people to practice social interactions and safely develop social skills.
