Issue link: http://southshoremagazine.uberflip.com/i/1418735
a peanut butter sandwich on his own, and the solution was a cutting board that holds the bread in place. Big or small, these assistive products make a huge difference. Outfitting its homes with such empowering products, whether high-tech or no-tech, is an ongoing initiative and a great priority for RTR. "While it is still early in the implementation, we are already seeing benefits from the smart home technologies," says White. "Residents are more independent in their simple daily tasks, whether that's raising or lowering the shades in their room, changing the channel on the TV or helping to prepare meals or get exercise, they are able to do so without as much (or any) help from Staff! You can see the pride and growing self confidence the more people use these life-improving devices." If you are interested in learning more or making donations to the initiative, visit RTR's website at roadtoresponsibility.org, like their Facebook page or call 781.834.1300. There are many ways to get involved with RTR, such as through employment, individual and corporate volunteering. When you support RTR, you get to be part of something bigger than yourself and you get to be part of an organization that serves some of the most amazing, but also most vulnerable, among us. 40 for those in wheelchairs who enjoy tailor-made exercise routines. Guests even got to "read" copies of The South Shore Magazine with a C-pen, which speaks the words aloud when you scan it over print! The smart refrigerator was the most captivating item, with a screensaver and healthy meal-plan programming that even allows you to place your Instacart order. You can speak to the refrigerator and see what's inside without opening it via your own cell phone. Unbelievably, the refrigerator also can tell you when someone is at the door by syncing with the Ring doorbell system. The technology in the house does not jump out at you, but it is incredibly well-thought out and personalized. Some of the most helpful items do not require advanced technology: One resident with limited arm-mobility wanted to be able to brush her hair by herself, so the RTR team found her a long-handled hairbrush. Residents can also cut food on their own thanks to a rocking knife and non-slip cutting board. "There is something for everyone," says Director of Development, Erin Cohen. "The ultimate goal was to give our individuals independence. Another wonderful effect of the home is that they can enjoy more meaningful quality time with the staff, instead of just going through the necessary daily routines." The Norwell home is such a success that Road to Responsibility is planning its next smart home. Located in Stoughton, it houses individuals who have acquired brain injuries (ABI). The team is speaking with residents so that they can find the items that will best serve their needs. For example, one resident wanted to make