The Low Down on Low Tech

For an individual with dexterity problems and/or fine motor impairments, using a key to unlock a door, cabinet, or drawer can be difficult and sometimes painful. There are several remote locking systems that can be purchased for door locks and there are padlocks that can be locked and unlocked through infrared or radio frequency control buttons. For locks that cannot be adapted or require a key, creating a larger handle for the key might be helpful. In Easy Things to Make…To Make Things Easier, Doreen Greenstein (author) suggests attaching a polymer clay (e.g., Fimo or Sculpey) or sheet plastic material (e.g., Friendly Plastic) to the head of the key. These materials can be cut and molded to any shape and they harden when heated. Additionally, painting a bright color around the keyhole might help locate it. For complete instructions on this and other useful adaptations, please see her book.

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