There Are A Few - But Still Too Few Options.

Pushing those little buttons on a cell phone makes using cell phones challenging if not impossible for the movement-impaired and physically challenged - the blind and visually impaired, the elderly and arthritic, and those with any of many immune and neuromuscular disorders. The deaf and hard of hearing face different cellular challenges and need sound amplification and TTY technology integrated with cell phones. Then, too, there are the technologically impaired, most notably seniors, who are intimidated or turned off to these little devices.

For the active handicapped individual there are distinct advantages to having a cell phone at home and on the go allowing them to reach out for the most appropriate help whenever they need, wherever they are. According to the CTIA, "Over 90% of cell phone buyers cite personal safety as the best reason for owning a cell phone and over 60% have used it to call 911." Progress is being made by the cellular manufacturers and providers but there are still many for whom the existing solutions are not real solutions. It's incongruous that the most vulnerable are the most challenged to benefit from this safety enhancing technology.

Being able to contact 911 is clearly the most important option that should be available to the handicapped and the Mobile911 makes that possible with a single large button that calls 911when pressed. The phone also features a siren triggered by squeezing that may be too difficult for the handicapped or elderly to activate.

For those wanting the full benefits of a cell phone, the voice-activated phones provide a valuable solution for some. SprintPCS partnered with Samsung to offer the first voice-activated model and the Motorola V. Series model 60c offers a number of helpful features including voice-activation. Check with cellular providers in your area for information about voice-activated phones that are compatible with their systems. Speech impairments and background noise can interfere and they demand a lot of battery power requiring more frequent charging depending on the model. A nice side benefit is that you don't have to remember the numbers - just the names.

For the hard of hearing, TTY machines are available that plug into most cellular phones and Motorola has developed a TTY adapter. TTY works best with analog cell phone service. There are also portable amplifiers that can be strapped onto cell phones though it may be best to use with a larger model phone.

Another option for the physically challenged is fairly new on the market - the SOS Phone©. It is hearing aid compatible and has three large, well-lit buttons. One button calls 911, the second calls roadside assistance, and the third connects the caller with a live trained operator who has a list of contacts you request by name. With the account password they will dial any phone number you request. The phone is for outgoing calls only however. Surprisingly enough, the monthly service charge is far less than a regular cell phone. The flat per minute rate is higher than typical cell phone plan rates but it also includes long distance, roaming, and taxes so there are no surprises.

There are limited options and real unmet needs for the physically-challenged including phones with larger number pads, Braille, sound amplification, voice feedback and improved TTY integration. For those for whom the existing options are not feasible or economical, the Mobile911 and the SOS Phone provide worthwhile options.