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Lights

	Light Dimmer Plug a metal lamp into this light dimmer and you can touch anywhere on the lamp to turn it off, dim the light (3 levels), or turn it off. Note: You have to touch the lamp to move through each level (on-dim-light-bright-off). You can find this device at Home Depot or amazon.com for about $15.00.
	Light Switch Extender A light switch extender is an easy way to allow a child or seated individual to reach the light switch. Note: It does not require any electrical work.
	Touch Lights Touch lights, designed for closets or small spaces without electrical wiring, are great for teaching cause-effect while allowing a child to turn on a nightlight. Note: The larger the touchlight, the more force is required to activate the switch inside. Therefore, smaller touchlights are nice for individuals who have difficulty exerting pressure with their touch. You can find touch lights at many large retail stores, such as Target; Wal-mart; K-mart; Linens and Things; Bed,Bath, and Beyond; and Home Depot.
	Rocker Switch Rocking switch plates have an easy-access switch compared to the classic light switch. They are nice for individuals with less refined motor skills. Note: Minor electrical work is needed for installation. They are available at most home improvement stores.
	Motion-activated Light Switch This light switch is activated automatically when it senses movement. Some models allow you to set a timer to turn the lights off after a set time. You will want to install them at a lower level on the wall so the device will sense the movement of a young child or seated individual. Note: Minor electrical work is needed for installation. They are available at most home improvement stores.
	Foot Switch Extension Cord This is designed to make turning on lights for a Christmas tree easier. It would also be a great tool for everyday use of lamps at home (1,625 watt limit for cord shown). A user could use a hand or foot to depress the switch in order to turn lights on or off. Note: This is generally a seasonal item. If you can't find it in stores, try websites that specialize in Christmas products such as www.christmasdepot.com. It costs about $10.00.
	The Clapper Clap on. Clap off. If a user is able to perform a controlled, timed clap this might be a great solution. You can get The Clapper at drug stores or on line at www.amazon.com for approximately $30. The new clapper comes with two plugs to control two different lamps based on the number of claps used. It also has a sound sensitivity setting (originally designed to scare away an intruder) that will respond to noises; however, the sound detector will only turn the device "on".

©Heather Atkins, MS, CCC-SLP
heather.atkins@comcast.net