* The product featured in this post was kindly gifted by MERU in exchange for a review, but all opinions are my own. *
As a charity, MERU produces small batches of products that wouldn’t normally be commercially viable, allowing them to help people living with specific or complex needs. They design one off items for individuals where there is no suitable product on the market. However, the process of designing and manufacturing from scratch is very in-depth, meaning they try to adapt existing equipment where possible. They also offer a switch toy adaptation service where families can send in up to 5 interactive toys at a time to be adapted for use with switches, which you can learn more about via the links below!
One of MERU's best selling products is the range Flexzi gadget stands. This flexible attachment is very easy to position, whilst remaining stable and secure with great protection for your devices. Made from single strands of flexible plastic segments, you can perfectly position a range of devices with limited fine motor skills. It isn’t fiddly, which is one of our favourite features. I typically have the arm of the Flexzi standing upright with the top part titled, so I can see my phone screen; but if I need to tuck it out of the way, I can simply push the arm downwards to make it lie flat along the side of my wheelchair or bed!
Available in 3 colours, along with a lightweight and robust eco-clamp or a heavy duty clamp base. The eco-clamp is a flat attachment that is typically designed for tables and beds; whereas the heavy duty clamp has a rounded attachment that is designed to clip onto wheelchairs and pushchairs. The price of your Flexzi does depend on your choice of clamp; however, I opted for the eco-clamp so I could use it to attach my phone to my bedside table. Something I have found particularly useful in the hospital when I am unable to lift my arms due to having numerous access lines!
To my surprise I was also able to attach the Flexzi by wrapping some vet bandage around the leg of my wheelchair; although I think anything with a gripped texture would hold the attachment in place! I have loved being able to attach my phone to my wheelchair, which is ideal for anyone like me who has difficulty holding your phone at times and/or has a tendency to drop things! As for the actual clamp, I have some difficulty tightening it up to secure it in place; but I don’t mind asking my Carer to do this when attaching the Flexzi to something. However, I have heard that the heavy duty is a little easier to turn as it has a lever that you twist, as opposed to to a circle that you turn to tighten.
As for attaching your device to the Flexzi, it couldn’t be more simple! All you do is attach a small strip of Velcro to your device, which comes included in the price. I also bought some more Velcro off Amazon, so I could attach an additional strip to the back of my phone case and the bottom of my camera. I had so many people stop me, particularly at Naidex to ask whether my phone was secure and I must admit that I was a bit hesitant about my camera falling off at first, but I can’t emphasise how strong the Velcro is! So much so that it requires quite a strong grip to remove your device!
Overall, I cannot recommend the Flexzi enough to someone looking for an attachment that can hold their phone, camera or buddy buttons. I have had SO many people stop me to ask where they could buy the attachment, so I will leave a link to MERU’s online shop below for anyone who wants to get one for themselves. It comes in 3 different lengths and 3 different colours, to ensure your attachment meets the needs and likes of each buyer.
Hi, I'm Lauren and I have been living with a collection of disabilities for the past 8 years. I initially had a passion for teaching children with special needs, but my health prevented me from pursuring my dream career. Despite this, I now love nothing more than sharing my experiences to help other people living with disabilities.
Hi, I’m Lori and was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and a family of co-morbid conditions which has made life highly complex. However I constantly aim to make life as ‘normal’ and fulfilling as possible - and through this, I discovered the benefits of writing about my journey.
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