Switches can be suitable for people with cognitive difficulties, developmental delays and physical limitations. In the simplest use they are a clear and simple way to demonstrate action/reaction often referred to as cause and effect. In the more complex use, they could be the means to control mobility or interact with the environment. There are a variety of motivating switch activities that can be used to assess and develop a person's understanding of choice and timing.

Switches can be linked to a variety of devices, for example: Augmentative and Alternative Communication