What’s Adaptive Design?

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Adaptive design is the creation of objects that promote ease of access for all people. Typically, this term is associated with disabilities, but all people could theoretically benefit from modifications to certain objects to better fit an individual’s body or mind. Most people believe that creating universally accessible objects and systems is preferable to modifying objects individually to increase accessibility, but that current and practical solutions to lived problems are also extremely important. The types of changes characteristic of adaptive design are usually individual in nature, but can help with mobility, positioning, and even learning.

Most of the objects and systems in the world are designed for a non-existent “normal” body. Adaptive design is a philosophy that advocates making changes to these objects in order to increase the ease of use for an individual. The individual in question may have a very specific disability, such as not being able to sit upright, in which case the item could be used in a number of situations where sitting is a problem. Alternatively, the design could be intended to complement a specific existing object, such as a wheelchair.

One of the most attractive features of adaptive design is that it is, in its ideal form, highly individual. Even people with the same disability could have very different needs depending on the specifics of that disability. For this reason, the emphasis is on the personalization of adaptive products. It’s not always possible to achieve a perfect fit between your body and the technology, but a close match is important to success with these products.

All people can benefit from adaptive design changes, but people with disabilities can benefit enormously from these minor changes. Facilitating participation in social activities and increasing access to opportunities is a major goal of many groups that focus on this type of design. Even so, it is generally considered more appropriate both philosophically and practically to maximize ease of use for all people without adding modifications. Considering difference when designing products can reduce the need for adaptation of those products, which in turn promotes the seamless inclusion of people with disabilities.

Accessibility can often be improved using basic tools and design materials. Individuals may be able to build adaptive solutions using inexpensive materials such as cardboard or foam. These products aren’t always the most attractive, but they can be highly functional. Many groups aim to assist parents in creating these items for children and in equipping individuals with the technologies they need to participate fully in their lives.

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