Technology at Sense
Technology can support you to live more independently, and help with communication and day-to-day living.
Technology has a big part to play in our purpose at Sense – to help you to express yourself in your way; to be understood by others; to make your choices; and to enjoy a meaningful and fulfilling life forged through friendships and connections.
Of course, technology comes in all shapes and sizes, and is used across our Sense services. We search out ways to break down the barriers to accessing technology, and support people to maximise the benefits.
How Sense uses technology
In our everyday work, Sense Living and Sense Centres
We use technology to support daily living activities. This ranges from accessible kettles, devices to help with eating and drinking and heating and lighting controls, to switches to access entertainment devices and technology to support personal health.
In some of our Sense Living accommodation, for example, we use monitoring technologies such as sensors on rooms, doors and beds to check breathing, heart rate and movement.
This increases independence by enabling people to, for instance, access a kitchen independently, while letting staff know if certain cupboards, which may contain food that is a choking hazard, are used.
To enable people to connect
Digital technologies let you connect with friends and family, develop new skills, give you greater choice and offer a way of recording, sharing and remembering activities.
As part of a Big Lottery funded project, Online Today, we have supported 1,000 people to develop the skills, confidence and motivation to get online and be more connected. This includes accessing the internet and social media, using Skype, and training staff to get involved.
To support communication
From hearing devices, low vision aids, lighting systems, GPS systems and specialist communication software, to apps and braille devices, technology can help remove barriers to communication, accessing information and mobility.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) offers many options. AAC methods include eye pointing, gestures, signing, picture symbols or word boards, and speech output devices.
All of our staff are trained in the total communication approach we take to finding the right communication methods for you.
To support the development of new technology
Existing and new technology does not always meet the needs of disabled people with complex communication needs. We work with technology developers to identify issues and solutions with the products we use.
