I own both an iPhone and iPad. The iPhone is attached to my wheelchair so the screen is almost always facing me. I do not make/answer phone calls or messages while in therapy unless I’m expecting something important. I have breaks periodically throughout the day and will troll through my phone during these times.
I have limited use of my hands so using voice control is essential in navigating the phone. To turn on Voice control on an iPhone or iPad:
- Open Settings
- Click on accessibility
- Turn on Voice control (not voiceover)
I have discovered the following apps essential for my emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. I’m not including the obvious apps such as phone, mail, messages, etc. All of them are free and with most can do an upgrade for a fee.
Notes
I use notes a lot. I mean a lot. I’m a simpleton so I use the notes app included with the iPhone. It’s very simple.
I currently have 34 total notes saved. I list movies and books I’d like to see. Keep track of agenda items I want to speak with regarding doctors, therapists, or friends. The listings of all my passwords are tucked away in one convenient note. I jot down highlights after doctor appointments or shutdown ideas for blogging.
Google Docs
I frequently use this app in writing content for blogging. On one of my docs, there is a running list of blogging topics. I do the voice to text technology. It’s easy for me to proofread and make corrections.
You can also convert a Google document to Microsoft Word and attach the document to an email.
Mindfulness Coach
This is an awesome app to help me develop mindfulness skills. Most exercises are about 13 minutes in length. A variety of different techniques are available such as mindfulness of the senses, the body, breathing etc.
Reminders
Another app included with the phone. I use this app for my shopping list and general reminders of things I need to do. You can set a time and date on a reminder, which is helpful in prioritizing and following up.
Shipt
Since I’m dependent on public transportation, it is no longer convenient for me to hop in my chariot to run errands or grocery shop. I use shipt for almost all my grocery shopping. Meijer, Target, Walgreens, Forest Hills Foods, etc. Deliveries are free for purchases over $35. And don’t forget to tip your shopper!
Spotify
This is probably the most popular app for streaming music. It links with my Alexa. I listen to podcasts, create music playlists, exploring new genres, and audiobooks.
Calendar
When I was initially paralyzed in 2018, I received a steady stream of visitors. Things got chaotic quickly. Multiple visitors would show up at the same time. I would accidentally double book myself or forget things until I started using this app.
I use the calendar app to schedule visits, doctor appointments, and meeting friends. You can set up up to two reminders of these upcoming events.
And I rarely double booked myself now!
Audible
This is my choice for listening to e-books. It makes recommendations based on my reading habits. Being a man who researches every purchase imaginable, Audible has star ratings up to five points. I’ll read the reviews of previous readers. If interested, I will either save the book or just make my purchase.
I also have a library app called Hoopla. You can get a wide selection of e-books and audiobooks free of charge. You have 21 days to read/ listen.
The main advantage for the library app is that books are free. Disadvantages are that you may have to wait several weeks for a book.
Amazon
Need I say more?
Roku
This app links with my Wi-Fi on the TV. The Roku remote is too small for my hands to use it effectively. Using voice control, I am able to use Roku to select movies and shows to watch.
My Net Diary
My chosen app in monitoring my calories, fiber intake, carbs, etc. Goals in the app helps me monitor by daily and weekly progress. I need to consume 100 milliliters of protein per day.
I invite your feedback regarding any of these apps. Please let me know if you have any apps that may be helpful for me and other people with disabilities.
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