We’ve looked at task management and to-do list apps in the past, but we haven’t spent a lot of time looking at apps that are designed to promote independent living. CanPlan was designed specifically with people who have cognitive challenges in mind, offering a way to complete everyday activities by breaking them down into clear, manageable steps. The app was designed with a variety of individuals in mind, including those with brain injuries, dementia, Autism, Fetal Alcohol, Dyslexia, and a variety of developmental disabilities.

CanPlan is a step-by-step photo-reminder/planner app that pairs simple instructions with a variety of prompts. Users can choose from photos, text, and optional audio prompts in order to guide individuals through a variety of routines like making a meal, completing household chores, or getting ready to leave the house.

The app is designed to be straightforward and easy to approach. With support from a family member, caregiver, or support worker, each step of a task can be photographed and paired with simple instructions. Once the task is set up, the user can open it and follow along independently.

One of CanPlan’s strongest features is how visual and customizable it is. Photos are central, making it accessible for people who do not rely on reading alone. This flexibility makes it easier to tailor the app to the individual instead of asking the individual to adapt to the app. The wide variety of possible prompts means that it could be useful for a range of learning styles.

CanPlan is not designed to replace planners or scheduling tools. Instead, it was created for people who benefit from visual sequencing, reminders, and clear structure. The app is easy to set up, grounded in real world needs, and focused on helping people with cognitive challenges do more on their own.

The CanPlan app is available for Android and iOS for free. To learn more, click here.

This post originally appeared on the AT Help Desk website.

Tags: apps, assistive technology, AT HelpDesk, Atlantic Regional Office