Nicolas Vaagen, a former computer science student, has turned to 3D printing to assist individuals with disabilities in enhancing their quality of life. Following a car accident in 2020 that resulted in a brain injury, Vaagen now faces challenges with mobility and memory.
During his recovery period and subsequent outpatient therapy, Vaagen realized the lack of readily available tools to aid individuals with disabilities in performing everyday tasks. Frustrated by the limitations of existing assistive technology, he sought a more personalized approach to address his needs.
Vaagen discovered Makers Making Change, an initiative by the Neil Squire Society, which pairs makers with individuals requiring adaptive technology. Through this program, he secured a grant to purchase a 3D printer and began creating customized tools to improve his daily life.
Initially, Vaagen utilized pre-existing schematics from Makers Making Change to craft a stand for his nail clippers, facilitating their use with his impaired hand. Empowered by this newfound independence, he ventured into designing his own tools, including adaptations for gaming consoles and aids for card players.
Despite the non-ideal outcomes of some initial designs, Vaagen persisted in refining his creations to cater to various needs. Emphasizing the importance of such tools in enabling individuals to enjoy recreational activities, he advocates for inclusivity and accessibility in daily life.
Statistics Canada’s 2022 survey highlighted the unmet needs of individuals with disabilities in performing essential tasks, underscoring the significance of DIY assistive technology in filling these gaps. Makers Making Change aims to address these challenges by fostering a community of volunteer makers dedicated to crafting innovative solutions.
Vaagen’s current endeavor involves developing a doorknob adapter to assist a woman with arthritis in opening doors more comfortably. Eager to collaborate with more individuals in Saskatchewan, Vaagen encourages those in need of customized tools to reach out to him via email at nicolasvaagen@gmail.com.