C-PEN Readers: Easterseals Offers New Accessible Reading Tool

Easterseals Southern California has introduced a new tech tool to Adult Day Services (ADS) participants with disabilities, and it’s already making a major impact! The device, called a C-PEN Reader, makes reading and literacy more accessible for people with possible barriers to reading. In our video below, Easterseals participant Orina demonstrates how the C-PEN works and shares how it has changed her life for the better. 

But first, let’s learn more about C-PENS! 

What is a C-PEN? 

C-PEN Readers are assistive devices that empower people with and without disabilities to read, understand and learn. Users can simply scan full paragraphs or single words and listen to the text being read out loud automatically.

C-PEN Features: 

• Explanations or definitions of words, if needed
• No wi-fi required, which makes it more user friendly on-the-go
• Users can practice recent word pronunciations and definitions
• Available in multiple languages, like English and Spanish
• Audio boost for slightly higher volume in noisy environments
• Slow or fast reading speeds
• Graphic user interface, making it easier for users with cognitive differences to navigate 

The Impact of C-PENS at Easterseals Southern California 

Already, C-PENS are making a huge impact with participants at Easterseals Adult Day Services Program. Currently, Easterseals has 11 Adult Day Services sites that are utilizing the C-PEN with over 40 people using the device, and that number is growing. 

“When I first saw the C-PEN, I did immediately think that this could benefit people in our services,” said Reese Peterson, Director of the Technology Lending Library. “We recognize that some people in our services may have some barriers to reading, whatever it might be, and this could help them become more empowered with reading, encouraged and independent.” 

Watch Orina Demonstrates the C-PEN 

In the video below, Easterseald ADS participant Orina shows how the C-PEN works and says, “My life is really changing...It just helped me to read on another level. Technology like this, y’all keep it up.” 

“Prior to using the C-PEN, Orina has difficulty learning how to pronounce and enunciate some words,” said Ruby Javonillo, Life Skills Coach. “I’ve noticed a big difference. It’s changing her life. Using the C-PEN really helped her a lot.”