Google has introduced a FREE app called Action Blocks for Android users only (for devices Android 5 and above), designed to help make using a smart phone easier by creating large, easy to see icon “blocks”, on your cell phone’s desktop. These blocks can be customized to accomplish the users needed task with just one push. This will help the user see the function more clearly, and not be distracted by other buttons that are not ordinarily used. This app creates a new way to enable Google Assistant for those with cognitive disabilities and age-related conditions. Traditionally, Android users needed to press an icon/button to open a function or app, then push more buttons to in order to complete the task. For example, making a phone call. By using Action Blocks, all the actions are completed with one button.

These large “one and done” blocks are great for children and adults who have limited vision, limited dexterity, or cognitive delays. It promotes independence, which also helps caregivers and teachers.

There are cartoon type pictures available, in edit mode, for commonly used icons, but you can also create your own picture using the camera on your cell phone. This is helpful for people with cognitive delays that may need to see the picture of the person they are calling or medicine they are taking, versus a generic cartoon or word spelled out.

This app was trialed on a 65-year-old stroke victim who suffers from left side paralysis, some vision loss, and cognitive delay that also causes extreme anxiety because of their physical dependence on others. Blocks were created to text their caregiver, call their spouse, remind them to take medications, turn on the light, and play their favorite game. Action Blocks was well received and they intend on continuing its use as well as program additional blocks.

To help with more complex environmental controls, the trial included the creation of an additional block that opened up “Hey Google”. Like Alexa, or Apples Siri, it will open the command that you speak into the phone. Downloading the app, “Google Home”, for environmental controls, works well with Action Blocks. Action Blocks is very simple to learn by the user. Simple to program. Simple to edit or change. So simple, that it also takes a separate icon/button to close the function you are using. For example. You can assign the “block” to turn on a light, but you need a second “block” to turn off the light. You cannot use the same “block”. In addition, if a user has limited use of a smart phone, they will need to have a caregiver program it for them.