One of my all-time favorite activities at the AOTA Conference is to meet other entrepreneurs and learn about their products. Here are my 5 favorites from 2024 – take a minute to check them out!
ReachAble Technology
ReachAble Technology was my favorite find at the 2024 conference! The founder is committed to improving the universal cuff and fostering increased independence for patients with grasping difficulty. Marrying a versatile adapter with a universal cuff allows users to attach a range of everyday feeding utensils including cups, spoon, and fork. The system includes a quick release clamp and universal connectors to add custom items to the system. Developed alongside end users, this project will make a real difference to anyone struggling to grasp items on their own. View the product in action at: https://reachable-tech.com/
Point Designs
Ambassadors for Point Design’s partial hand prosthetics were on hand at the conference. Until you see the product in person and in use, you won’t appreciate how impactful this prosthetic will be for your patients. Improving on the design of conventional passive prosthesis, the Point Design projects rely on an “elegant and novel ratcheting linkage mechanism resulting in anatomical prosthetic finger flexion”. This product is designed to improve the independence of your patients with finger or thumb loss and watching the ambassadors, I was convinced. Learn more about the product and meet the ambassadors yourself at https://www.pointdesigns.com
OTStories
While my favorite population as an OT is older adults, I have worked with kids along the way. This OT entrepreneur has written a lovely series of social stories for children that communicate OT strategies in an age appropriate way. Beautifully illustrated the current collection includes stories that discuss eating, focus, silence, holidays and change. This OT started out like I did – creating resources for her own patients – and has grown that resource into a business! Check out her books at: https://www.otstories.com/
Scrunch Cloth
Some solutions are so simple! This washcloth hugs the wrist eliminating the need to grasp and minimizing the chances of dropping the cloth. The Scrunch Cloth, can easily be pulled on and off the hand or transferred to the other hand with just a finger. Made of 100% cotton, the product eases personal care tasks for persons with visual or other physical disabilities. Check out their endorsements at https://scrunchcloth.com/
Mindful Fidgets
This is another great idea brought to market by an OT entrepreneur. There are a lot of fidgets for sale, but I liked the fact that this one is wearable and at first glance, looks like a watch. The design lets the wearer access the fidget anytime and the size makes it less distracting to others. If fidgets are a good strategy for one of your patients or for yourself, check out the product at https://www.mindfulfidgets.com/
