Bachelor of Arts (Culinary Arts) Assistive Technology, Accessibility, and Disability

Objectives: To learn why accessibilty is important in society Understand what is assistive technology Identify different types of assistive technology for the mobility disabled Identify different types of assistive technology for the blind Develop a plan to make a kitchen more accessible

People With Disabilities in Ireland We are all equal people of Ireland Our rights must be protected by the law We have a right to learn, to work and to be part of our country We have a right to give as much as we are able to give We have a right to choose how we live We have a right to be asked what we think Our parents, and the people who care for us, have a right to be asked What can be done?

Assistive Technology products can enable people with disabilities to accomplish daily living tasks, assist them in communication, education, work or recreation activities, in essence, help them achieve greater independence and enhance their quality of life. Assistive Technology devices can help improve physical or mental functioning, overcome a disorder or impairment, help prevent the worsening of a condition, strengthen a physical or mental weakness, help improve a person's capacity to learn, or even replace a missing limb. - What is Assistive Technology?

1. Aim to be Inclusive Development disabilities (Down syndrome, autism) Mental disabilities (memory loss, Alzheimer's) Physical disabilities (visual, hearing, mobility) Assistive Technology can be used to create an inclusive environment

2. Assistive Technology Tools Take a look at Lot's of useful tools to assist all types of needs! Can you think of assistive technology that helps chefs if they are: blind wheelchair users

Jar Openers Tin Openers Chopping BoardsCutting and Slicing Assistive Technology for Mobility

Assistive Technology for the Blind Braille labeler RNIB Liquid Indicator

3. Accessibility

What can be done to an existing Kitchen? In groups, discuss ways to improve accessibility in a kitchen.

What can be done to an existing Kitchen? Add storage bins Lower existing cabinets 30 cm over counter Keep counters clear Add a free standing storage cabinet Keep kitchen devices accessible from both sides, i.e. Dishwashers, microwaves, etc. May need to replace existing dishwashers, microwaves, etc Touchpads require less force than knobs

4. Examples Blind Chef Jackie Cabrera – Multiple honours student and blind First blind student at the Western Culinary Institute of Portland, Oregan Lost her eyesight in 2001 Adapted to her loss of vision Customised her kitchen Brail labels Spice on a rack in alphabetical order Constant layout

Summary Be inclusive! There are a variety of assistive tools available There are simple and effective ways to make the kitchen accessible An inclusive environment doesn't need to be expensive – you just need to keep in mind the needs of all