8 Free Apps for Occupational Therapists

This post is written by guest blogger, Kenneth Garcia. Kenneth regularly blogs on the topic of occupational therapy at The Career Moxie Blog. You can find the original post here. Below are listed some apps he has recommended for occupational therapists.

1. Tap to Talk - Get just what the app promises in its title. Patients can simply tap on what they like to get a voice. There are apps for iPhone, iPad, Kindle, Android, and many others at no charge. There is even a free web tool.
2. Verbally - This is an easy-to-use, comprehensive Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) app for the iPad. It brings speech to those without and enables real conversation with its simple, intuitive design. Available for free, simply tap on the image to get Verbally to say it for you.
3. Small Talk - Get an app designed specifically for the population that need specific and functional phrases paired with simple yet engaging illustrations. Each illustration minimally colored and simply yet effectively drawn accompanies a short, functional phrase often needed (and used) by clients with aphasia. Available for free, you can get both a male and female version.
4. Eye Chart Pro - Turn your iPad into a virtual eye chart with the help of this app. It has loads of customization to make your very own eye charts. There is both a free version and paid with more options.
5. Siemens Hearing Test - The app was created by audiology experts at Siemens to help you determine whether you have hearing impairment. This revolutionary application has been scientifically developed and carefully tested to ensure the most precise results possible. Get your very own hearing test app at no charge with a download.
6. How to Protect Your Eyesight - Have your patients try out this eye exercise app as part of their visual occupational therapy. It uses simple games which can reduce your visual fatigue and protect your eyesight. Also a good choice for occupational therapists who spend lots of time reading.
7. Autism Express - Use this simple app to get feelings listed as pictures. Simply have a patient point to a face to describe their current mood. Available at no charge, it is intended for autism patients.
8. Dragon Dictation - Finally, if you have a patient that can speak but not write, check out this app. It is a free voice recognition app available for the iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. The bloggers at OT's With Apps have more on this and other apps.

Kenneth welcomes comments and questions at his email address: kenneth.garcia257@gmail.com.