Environmental Control Evaluation

Helping individuals with disabilities regain power over his or her environment.

What is an Environmental Control unit (ECU)?

The purpose of an ECU is to maximize functional ability and independence in the home, school, work and leisure environment. With the aid of an ECU, the quality of life for individuals with disabilities can be improved, and the control over individual living space can be a reality for everyone.

What kinds of products are available?

ECU’s – control lights, appliances, door opener, intercom, TV, VCR, stereo, telephone, or other remote controlled devices.

ECU units can come in the form of a stand-alone device or a computer application.

Some alternative/augmentative communication devices can perform limited ECU functions.

Who benefits from an ECU evaluation?

Persons with disabilities may feel somewhat restricted in terms of the amount of control they have over their living space. Case studies have proven a client’s quality of life improves greatly with the use of ECU devices allowing a client more independence and control over his or her environment. The freedom to be able to open and close a door, control lights, appliances, make phone calls, or even change the channel on the TV, VCR or stereo, allows the client not only the independence to care for themselves, but pride in themselves for not having to rely on a caregiver for their every need.