CanPlan 1.8.2

What is it?

CanPlan is a tool designed to foster independence and enhance confidence among individuals facing cognitive challenges by supporting the successful completion of various tasks. The application enables users to decompose nearly any activity into a series of straightforward steps, which are visually represented through photographs and supported by optional text and audio descriptions. Furthermore, its scheduling and reminder functionalities help ensure that tasks are completed in a timely manner.

Professionals such as support workers and therapists have begun utilizing CanPlan for clients with cognitive impairments, memory issues, and related challenges. Additionally, family members and caregivers are finding this tool beneficial for loved ones who seek greater autonomy. Initially, users engage in an activity alongside a support person or relative, during which they document each step with photographs and contribute text or audio as necessary. Each task can then be organized under a customizable set of categories that may encompass areas such as food preparation, household chores, shopping, transportation, exercise, and workplace tasks.

Who is it for?

CanPlan caters particularly to individuals who struggle with tasks that involve sequential processing, including those affected by:

• Brain injury
• Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease
• Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder
• Dyslexia
• Developmental disabilities

Key Features

• Task Sequencing: Breaks tasks into an easily navigable sequence with photographic support and optional text or audio.
• Scheduling: Offers a daily list of tasks to be undertaken.
• Prompting: Includes audible reminders at set intervals.
• Active Task Reminder: Encourages users to remain focused on the task until completion.
• Task Categorization: Enables organization of tasks within customizable categories for rapid access.
• Universal Accessibility: CanPlan is optimized for use on iPhone, iPod Touch, and iPad devices.

Support

If you encounter any issues with the app, please reach out via email at canassist@uvic.ca.

Testimonials

"It really helps me to function and complete day-to-day tasks. I use the schedule and alarm to structure my day. It has removed so much stress in my life." – Client with early onset Alzheimer’s disease

"It works great – I can add whatever tasks I need to remember. I plan to add more tasks as my workload increases and as I start taking the bus to work." – Client with brain injury

"I appreciate that each step of a task is accompanied by both a photo and audio. The ability to incorporate empowering messages is also beneficial." – Support worker of client with brain injury

CanAssist at the University of Victoria

CanAssist is committed to creating tailored technologies and services aimed at enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities, focusing primarily on clients located in British Columbia, Canada.