Expanding Activity Options with YetiCare

Technology in Vocational and Rehabilitation Services

Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre in Estonia offers comprehensive educational and rehabilitation services for individuals with disabilities. Their approach focuses on the individual, prioritising well-being and quality of life. They aim to help individuals develop essential life skills and achieve meaningful fulfilment in their work lives.

To support their mission, the centre sought engaging and accessible tools that could be used by both students and staff, enriching recreational activities and professional therapeutic work. Their goal was to find a versatile, all-in-one solution that would seamlessly integrate into daily operations and meet the diverse needs of their community.

From Social Hub to Therapeutic Aid:
YetiCare in Action

To meet this need, Astangu Centre implemented the YetiCare solution, which promotes physical, cognitive and social engagement through digital games and inclusive technology. YetiCare combines Yetitablet, a giant Android tablet, along with modular software, including a user interface specifically designed for the social and health care sector, as well as a diverse range of applications.

After a period of use, YetiCare has proven to be valuable for a range of activities. Jan Pillav, a youth worker at the centre, describes Yetitablet as a large “TV-sized phone.” Its intuitive interface and touchscreen technology have made it accessible to both staff and students. The variety of YetiCare’s activity applications has allowed for seamless integration into daily routines.

Yetitablet is primarily used in the cafeteria, serving as a central hub for social events and recreational activities. One of the most popular activities is YetiCups, a fun and engaging throwing game that students love. Jan notes that the device’s versatility encourages creative uses and new ideas for implementation.

YetiCare is not just a source of entertainment; it has also become a valuable professional tool. Veronika Kaska, Deputy Director of Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre, highlights its use by occupational therapists for training motor skills and observing the skill levels. She continues: “YetiCare’s proprietary apps, like YetiCoordination, YetiDarts, and YetiBowling, have been used to practice hand-eye coordination.“

“Some students find the screen-based activities an enjoyable and motivating way to do exercises. YetiCare offers a fun and engaging way for us to work on motor skills.”

Anneli, Occupational therapist, Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre

Positive Outcomes and New Possibilities

YetiCare has successfully provided new experiences for students and has become an attractive tool for staff. It has opened up new possibilities for recreational activities and rehabilitation, and has integrated seamlessly into social gatherings. The centre confirms that YetiCare has significantly enriched the approaches available to therapists for conducting assessments or engaging service users.

Looking ahead, Astangu Centre sees great potential to expand the use of YetiCare’s solution. They are exploring new ways to use the device and its applications, including:

• Learning the Estonian Language: Using YetiCare’s word games to create interactive language learning exercises.
• Art Therapy: Utilising painting applications, like YetiPaint, for painting and creative expression.
• New Activities: The centre remains open to discovering and implementing new ways to leverage the device’s capabilities. They are involving the students in this process.

Astangu’s experience with YetiCare emphasises the importance of not just a great product, but also training and support for its users. The centre is eager to find ways to help its staff discover new ways to use the device to its full potential.

“YetiCare has been a fantastic addition to our centre, providing new ways to engage our students and support our professional staff.”
— Veronika Kaska, Deputy Director, Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre

“YetiCare has been a fantastic addition to our centre, providing new ways to engage our students and support our professional staff.”

Veronika Kaska, Deputy Director, Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre

About Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre

Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre is the leading vocational education and rehabilitation centre in Estonia for individuals with disabilities. The centre accommodates a diverse range of student profiles, including those with learning difficulties, neurodevelopmental disorders, and physical or intellectual disabilities. Astangu adopts a person-centred approach, prioritising the quality of life for its students. During the rehabilitation process, the focus is on each individual’s goals and their participation in activities.

For more information about Astangu Vocational Rehabilitation Centre, please visit their website.