Ask HN: Startups/tech/advancements in the intellectual disability space?

2 pointsby costcopizzavor 2 Jahren3 comments

Hi HN, as a family member to someone with an Intellectual/Developmental Disability [0], I am wondering if there are any startups, products, advancements directly or indirectly addressing this population.

I know it's a broad umbrella, as not only do many different disabilities exist, but their severity as well.

For the people I am often around, living independently is the most shared goal. That in itself encompasses many things like motor skills, ability to keep routines, assistance for daily tasks, etc.

I realize this may be niche so I welcome adjacent findings as well.

Thank you!

[0] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6040-joubert-syndrome

1 comments

brudgersvor 2 Jahren

There are small businesses in the space. But because every person with a disability is unique, there aren't universal solutions. It's wetware not software. Good luck.

costcopizzavor 2 Jahren

Thank you. Yeah definitely a shot in the dark.

My mind was initially thinking of an AI assistant focused on guiding users through daily tasks (personal hygiene, locking doors, etc).

Advancements in robotics made me wonder if there was something wearable to enhance one's motor skills.

brudgersvor 2 Jahren

Neither is better than personalized hands on care. For the patient, that is. For those who would rather not pay for it with their money and/or time apps and robots are attractive.