A client recently evaluated for his assistive technology needs required access to an AAC app to augment his communication using one hand and arm due to motor impairment of his non-dominant arm. The client has gross movements of their non-dominant hand and arm allowing functional positioning of that arm to his dominant hand and arm for visual and physical access, however a method of stable positioning was needed for use with his dominant hand and arm. An armband/wrist band was sought as a solution for a smartphone identified as the device to support the AAC app selected to support his communication needs. The evaluation was performed by this ATP specialist along with an SLP specializing in ACC due to the clients multiple needs of communication and computer access.

Thanks to the research by the speech and language pathologist, the following Tunebelt arm band, available for iPhone 6 plus and iPhone 6, was identified which manages the iPhone and accommodates a variety of protective cases frequently applied to the iPhone:

This Tunebelt arm band is available for iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus as well as a wide variety of other smartphones and models. As advertised, the arm band also accommodates a variety of cases applied to iPhone 6 or 6 Plus accommodating protective cases often applied to these smart phones (Otterbox, LifeProof, etc.) as seen below.

The AB92 model accommodates the iPhone 6 with case ( as well as other smart phone with cases as shown above) and AB89 model accommodates the iPhone 6 and 6S with case (as well as other smart phones with cases) as shown below.

Although lanyards and holders can be used for managing small, handheld devices with AAC devices  (such as iPhone, iPods, Android phones) who have use of two hands. For those using one hand and some movement with their non-dominant arm, a wrist band can allow easy access to their communication. An extension strap is also available for the armband that could allow accommodations for coats or those with large builds.

Other solutions previously explored including lanyard options can be found at:

iPhone Lanyards Options for Security

More for your OT eTool Kit.

Carol from OT’s with apps.