3D-printed items can help those in need in a number of ways.
In the last decade, 3D printing has boomed around the world. The cost of 3D printing has come down significantly since Stratasys' fused deposition modeling patent expired in 2009 and entered the public domain. Since then, innovative manufacturers who model, print, and create 3D-printed products have been strengthened.
3D printing is more than model toys and mysterious structures. Essentially, 3D printing aims to help people get the products and supplies they need at a reasonable cost.
Sensory Gadgets
We're all familiar with fidget spinners and stress balls. These devices are designed to help people with ADD/ADHD. Fidget spinners were used in occupational therapy and are now marketed and sold as toys. However, the effectiveness of fidget spinners has been debated, and researchers have wondered if they're more of a marketing ploy than a true sensory aid. Proponents point out that some neurodiverse individuals seem to benefit from wriggling toys.
People who are neurodiverse may think differently than those who are considered neurotypical. "There is no one right way the brain exists," explains Dr. Can You Thrive?"
3D printing could enable more comprehensive forms of intervention and care for people with neurodiverse diversity. 3D printing could break the mold of sensory aids like fidget toys. It can provide learning experiences and products tailored to the needs of people identified as neurodiverse. For example, 3D-printed products could offer neurodiverse people:
1. Personalized devices to support attention/recognition;
2. Conforming clothing that helps the wearer focus on the task at hand;
3. Sensory devices and puzzles present information in new visual ways.
As 3D printing becomes more affordable, more educators, students, and professionals will have the opportunity to try it for themselves and find a device that works for them and meets their specific needs.
Aging Aids
Aging alone takes its toll on the body. It's no surprise that older adults need support from new technologies and 3D-printed implants, walkers, and even prosthetics.
There are many ways to stay healthy and happy later in life. A person in their senior years should maintain a regular routine or exercise, eat a healthy diet, and keep studying. 3D printing can help promote healthy aging as 3D printed products such as hearing aids and ergonomic walking sticks reduce care costs for seniors and ensure they can live independently and with dignity.
3D printing for personal healthcare could even help older adults from lower socioeconomic families get the treatments and surgeries they need. Doctors and engineers have been able to 3D print meniscal stents — a common implant used in knee surgeries for elderly patients. Biosynthetic implants, such as those made through 3D printing, can close health gaps and help everyone get the treatment they need.
Seniors can even benefit from learning how to manipulate and print with 3D software and printers. Being curious about the world is a great way to stay "young" and most software programs lend themselves to self-learning. MakerBot provides software that tailors 3D printing for students and allows people from all backgrounds to experiment with design thinking and 3D printer manipulation.
New opportunities
3D printing is quickly developing into a fair and equal industry for all those interested and innovative. Students around the world are using 3D printing to improve their employment opportunities. Oxford Brookes University students have even used industry-grade technology directly to 3D print their own Formula Student car.
As the average cost of entry into 3D printing decreases, new opportunities may arise for all creative minds and those who love design thinking.
Finally
3D printing is bridging the care gap and helping people around the world find new career opportunities. Older adults will also benefit from 3D printing, as 3D-printed hearing aids and mobility aids can be perfectly fitted to each patient at a relatively low cost.