How I use tech to support my Autistic life.

Living with autism presents unique challenges, but with the right tools, technology can make life more manageable and enjoyable. I’ve found that integrating certain apps and devices into my daily routine has significantly improved my quality of life. Here’s a peek into how I use tech to support my autistic life.

Habitica: My Life Management and Habit-Building Companion

One of the cornerstones of my routine is Habitica, a gamified task management app. Life management can be overwhelming, and building consistent habits is often challenging. Habitica turns these tasks into a game, where I earn rewards for completing daily tasks, habits, and to-dos. This approach keeps me motivated and helps me maintain structure, which is crucial for me. Whether it's remembering to take medication, completing chores, or building new habits, Habitica makes it easier and more engaging.

Hourly Chime: Staying Anchored in Time

Time blindness is a common struggle among neurodivergent individuals, myself included. Losing track of time can lead to missed appointments, skipped meals, and general disorientation. To combat this, I use an hourly chime on my phone. Every hour, a gentle reminder plays, bringing me back to the present moment. This simple yet effective tool is invaluable, especially when I’m hyper-focused and unaware of how much time has passed. It’s like having a little nudge that says, “Hey, it’s 2 PM now,” helping me stay on track throughout the day.

Alarms for Everything: A Lifesaver for Daily Tasks

Alarms are my go-to for managing daily tasks. I set alarms for everything—taking medication, eating lunch and dinner, and even for when I need to leave the house. My body’s signals aren’t always clear to me, so these alarms act as external cues, ensuring I don’t forget to take care of myself. Whether I’m engrossed in an activity or just struggling to interpret my body’s needs, these alarms provide the structure I need to maintain my daily routine.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Protecting My Auditory Space

Auditory sensitivity is a big part of my sensory experience, and noise-cancelling headphones are a game-changer. They help me create a controlled auditory environment, reducing the overwhelm from loud or unexpected noises. Whether I’m in a noisy café, on public transport, or just need some quiet time at home, these headphones provide the comfort and focus I need. They’re not just about blocking out noise; they help me feel safe and in control of my surroundings.

Text-to-Speech: A Voice When I Can’t Speak

There are times when I’m burnt out or in the midst of a meltdown, and speaking becomes an insurmountable task. During these moments, my mouth just doesn’t cooperate, and I don’t have the energy to force words out. That’s when text-to-speech technology comes in handy. By typing out what I need to say, I can still communicate effectively without the physical effort of speaking. It’s a simple tool, but it makes a world of difference when verbal communication isn’t an option.

Visual Grocery List App: Making Shopping Manageable

Being a visual thinker, I rely heavily on visual aids to keep my life organized. For grocery shopping, I use a visual grocery list app. This app allows me to create a list with pictures, ensuring I don’t forget anything while I’m out shopping. Visual cues are much easier for me to process than written words alone, and this app helps me stay organized and stress-free when tackling the sensory overload of a grocery store.

LED Lights: Sensory Support and Stimming Tool

Lastly, my love for LED lights deserves a mention. They’re not just a fun decorative element in my home; they serve a vital role in my sensory management. I can control the brightness and colour, creating an environment that suits my sensory needs. On days when I’m feeling particularly overwhelmed, watching the lights change colour becomes a calming stim, helping me regain a sense of peace. Plus, they allow me to avoid harsh overhead lighting, which can be too intense for me.

Embracing Tech to Enhance My Autistic Life

Technology isn’t just a convenience for me; it’s a lifeline. Each of these tools plays a crucial role in helping me navigate the world in a way that feels manageable and supportive. By integrating these technologies into my daily routine, I’ve been able to create a life that’s more structured, more comfortable, and ultimately, more aligned with my needs as an autistic person. If you’re neurodivergent or know someone who is, exploring these tech solutions might just make a positive difference in your life too.