Challenge
Technology for children in hospices improves health and happiness
Children in hospice still want to keep in touch with friends and family using the latest apps, and use games and educational tools to keep up to date and have a bit of fun. These kids have lifelong illnesses or disabilities, and using devices provided could make a difference in helping them heal and stay connected.
LIfelites is one such company trying to bring tech to children in hospice. A hospice never pays for equipment provided to the children. The equipment provided by Lifelites is specially chosen to be inclusive and empowering, with particular emphasis on giving the user the tools to communicate, to be creative, and to be in control. Recent Lifelites packages have focused on helping children with disabilities. With an integrated ‘Gooshy Switch’, a large fluffy toy mouse, nine-year-old Megan Farrell was recently able – for the first time – to play a part in an interactive system and turn the page of an on-screen story. Lifelites’ efforts since 2006 were recognized at the recent Tech4Good awards, winning both the Accessibility award as well as being named the Winner of Winners. They host events year-round in support of the charity, are always open for volunteer workers and, working with partners and other charities, thrive on donations. .