What is a Talking Thermometer?
A talking thermometer is a device that measures temperature and sometimes records it. It is often helpful for those who suffer from blindness or visual impairments, but it can also be used by those who prefer to have a temperature announced audibly rather than to read it themselves. A talking thermometer can be made to measure an individual’s body temperature, to measure indoor or outdoor temperature, or to be used in the kitchen when cooking. Aside from its verbal information, features of a talking thermometer can vary between models, but it normally has a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen that shows the temperature after it has been taken. Some models may have features that help recall a previously recorded temperature, while others allow an individual to choose to hear the temperature announced in a male or female voice.
A talking thermometer that is designed to be used on the body can be used orally, rectally, under the arm, in the ear, or on the forehead. Raised buttons can help those with visual impairments operate the device easier and most thermometers have quick results. Some are even available in different languages. A talking cooking thermometer is meant to be used in meats or in the oven to make sure the food has been cooked properly. It can help those who want to live independently, but it can also help those who are so busy in the kitchen an audible device is necessary. It can help a cook save time and keep tabs on the progress of certain foods while preparing other items.
A talking thermometer can also be used to help keep track of the temperature of indoor or outdoor environments. This type of device often has a large button which announces the current temperature when pressed. Its LCD screen can show the temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit, and an alarm may be set to sound if the temperature goes above or below a preset range. An indoor/outdoor thermometer can be programmed so temperatures can be announced hourly or at specific times. Its volume may be able to be controlled, and some can double as an alarm clock.
A talking thermometer can have the unexpected application of helping parents with their children, in addition to having a number of practical uses. Using a talking thermometer to take a child’s temperature can mean the difference between being compliant and being fussy. A talking thermometer can help calm a child down and offer a quick distraction as the temperature is being taken.
What is a Talking Thermostat?
A talking thermostat is a digital device with audio playback of time, day, indoor temperature, temperature setting, and programming instructions so senior citizens and those who are visually impaired, blind, or disabled can easily and precisely manage their indoor comfort. It can promote independent living with its verbal instructions and announcements, and it can also have a built in freeze protection option. For example, in the event the indoor temperature drops to 40 degrees because the thermostat is not working properly or was turned off, the heating system will automatically be turned on. In case of a power failure, a memory backup makes sure all of its programmed data will be saved. An LCD screen can display time, temperature, and system status for those who can see as well as to supplement with its voice announcements.
Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO
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