Journal of Assistive Technologies

Purpose – This paper seeks to describe how the special built-in features of modern smart phones can be used to open up the potential of these devices for use as assistive technologies in supporting the independence and quality of life of vulnerable people.

Design/methodology/approach – The paper describes, through a number of relevant examples, how low-cost, downloadable applications enable the camera, the microphone, the accelerometer, the GPS receiver and the touch-screen, to be used for specific assistive purposes.

Findings – Smart phones and their applications are capable of providing useful support to a range of vulnerable groups including people with sensory disabilities, diabetics and people suffering from mental health problems, epilepsy or communication issues. It is likely that mobile care services using smart phones will be offered in tandem with home telecare services to extend the independence of the service user from the home to the outside environment.

Originality/value – The paper demonstrates how smart phone applications are capable of transforming a high-performance mobile phone into a number of different assistive devices that can improve the lives of millions of people with and without disability.