givers during the development process is essential and highly valuable. This allows for timely adjustments, ensur- ing that the final solution aligns with the initial problem. • Implementing technical tools or solutions for people with deafblindness is a time-consuming process. It involves taking small, deliberate steps, with the critical aspect of feeling progress at each step. It's important to maintain sight of the ultimate goal. • As previously mentioned, there is a notable absence of ready-made solutions specifically tailored for individuals with deafblindness and intellectual disabilities. This pres- ents a considerable opportunity for developers. • Collaborating, learning from each other, sharing knowl- edge, and engaging in international cooperation are of utmost importance Considering the last point, in 2020, we initiated the DBI Tech- nology Network. This network focuses on the broad field of technology that is applicable to individuals with deafblindness, whether acquired or congenital. The network's goal is to identify technology that promotes self-determination, communication, independence, and entertainment. To accomplish these objectives, we aim to make existing and new technology accessible across various domains, including ICT and audiology, for individuals with deafblindness. We gather needs and ideas from individuals with deafblindness related to this topic, and then identify technical solutions through adjust- ments to existing applications or the development of new tech- nology and promote scientific research on haptic perception and haptic technology. And also we want to share information about existing devices and applications in the context of individuals with deafblindness and the professionals involved. The FabLab actively participates in this network, and through the exchange and combination of knowledge and experiences, as well as collaborative efforts, we aim to provide technical solutions for individuals with deafblindness. In line with our beliefs, we like to say that there is always a solu- tion to any problem. Three custom-made solutions have been presented to you in this article. The Bartiméus FabLab has already developed more solutions, and undoubtedly, more will follow. I hope it has be- come evident that through the application of technology and the use of appropriate tools, we can enhance the quality of life, as well as increase independence and self-reliance for people with (con- genital) deafblindness. In the title of this article, I pose the question: Is technology for people with complex needs and congenital deafblindness a mis- sion impossible? Hopefully, I have demonstrated that technology for people with complex needs and congenital deafblindness is a mission possible!
Flower with the proxacare sensor.
tions in a pillow the child is lying on. As the person approaches the child, the intensity of the pillow vibrations gradually increas- es, gently introducing the parent or caregiver's proximity in a pleasant way, preventing the child from feeling frightened or startled. Working with the Proxacare requires a lot of guidance due to habituation time at persons with deafblindness. The Proxacare is a tool that is accompanied by a corresponding intervention plan. This plan outlines how the tool should be intro- duced to individuals with deafblindness and the training process involved. In our opinion, without this intervention plan, Proxacare cannot be effectively utilized. Learning to use this tool necessitates an extended adaptation period, specifically focused on habituation during usage. The indi- vidual with deafblindness must comprehend the meaning of the signals emitted by Proxacare and understand the ultimate conse- quence: contact with the caregiver. Working with Proxacare demands substantial guidance, given the adaptation period required for individuals with deafblindness. In our pursuit of solutions and problem-solving through tech- nology for people with deafblindness, we have become increas- ingly inventive, yet we have encountered both significant and minor challenges. Valuable lessons have emerged: • Extensive interaction between developers and users/care-
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