As a cancer survivor, you may face a variety of symptoms, which may affect different parts of your life—from self-care and housework to returning to and staying at work. As many of these symptoms happen after cancer or its treatment, managing your symptoms at work may be challenging and you may benefit from work accommodations.
An assessment by a professional who has experience with and knowledge about adaptive technology can help you find the most suitable devices and equipment to overcome any work-related barriers. The following areas should be covered during an adaptive technology assessment.
You as an individual
The professional should understand your specific needs from your perspective.
They should check for effects of common cancer challenges on your performance at work, including:
- fatigue
- limited endurance
- sleep difficulties
- pain
- changes in sensation
- weakness
- mobility limitations
- hearing loss
- vision loss
- memory challenges
- mood fluctuations
They should also ask about your:
- personal experience with technology
- familiarity with your job tasks
- any likely future changes in your health
You on the job
- Assess your work abilities
- Analyze your job tasks
- Essential job tasks
- Tight deadlines
- Flexibility with completing tasks
- Non-essential tasks that can be changed or removed from your job
- Whether your job is likely to change in the near future
Your work environment
This includes any place where you will work and might use adaptive technology.
The professional should check:
- noise levels
- lighting
- temperature
- scents
- whether your work environment will change over time
Gathering the information above will help the professional identify suitable adaptive technology for you in your job.
Further resources
Tetra Society – Dedicated to assisting people with disabilities to achieve an independent and fulfilling life, one assistive device at a time.
