People with motor disabilities often find it hard to do tasks that require careful movements, like reaching for things or pressing buttons. Adaptive switches help solve this problem. These are special devices that work like simple buttons but can be used in many different ways.

An adaptive switch can be controlled by any part of the body the person can move, whether it's their head, hand, elbow, or even just a blink or puff of air. Each switch is made to match what's easiest and most comfortable for the person using it.

When connected to a computer or other device, these switches turn simple movements into commands. For example, a gentle touch or small movement can help someone type, control their wheelchair, or use their phone. The switch only needs to do two things: turn on and off, but how it does this can be changed to fit each person's needs and abilities.

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Image credit: Queen's University