What is assistive
technology?
Who can use assistive technology?
What is the difference between low tech and
high-tech assistive technology devices?
How will I know what kind of assistive technology
is right for me?
Am I limited to where I can use these Assistive
Technology devices?
How can I pay for assistive technology?
Can I try assistive technology before I buy it?
Assistive Technology is a tool or a service that can be
used by a person with a disability to make it easier to do everyday tasks. An
example of an assistive technology is a hearing aid used by an individual who
is hard of hearing. An example of an assistive technology service is
closed-captioning on a television screen for an individual who is hard of
hearing.
The following definitions for Assistive Technology are
taken from Public Law 100-407, which is called the Technology-related
Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988:
- Assistive Technology Device is defined as "any
item, piece of equipment, or product system whether acquired commercially
off the shelf, modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain,
or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."
- Assistive Technology Service means any service that
directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection,
acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.
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Assistive technology can be used by anyone. It helps
people to do things they would otherwise not be able to do without the
assistance of a device or tool. It also makes accomplishing tasks easier and
faster.
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Low-tech assistive technology devices
are commonly inexpensive. They are simple and manually operated. An example of
a low-tech s device is a jar opener.
High-tech assistive technology devices,
on the other hand, may cost more. They are mainly electronic or
computer-operated. Examples include:
- Voice Browsers: assistive technology software used
by individuals who are blind to help them use the internet.
- Augmentative Communication Devices: technology that
helps individuals in producing and/or understanding speech.
- Text-Magnification Software: software that makes
the text on the computer screen larger so it is easier to read.
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There are many things to consider when purchasing
assistive technology. The most important things to consider are the strengths,
likes, desires, preferences and ability of the individual to use the
recommended device. Some questions to ask include:
- Will the recommended device increase the quantity
and quality of time spent with other people?
- Is the individual using the device able to
understand and operate the controls?
- Will using the device always be a chore or can
using it become a habit?
- Is the device compatible with other assistive
technology?
- How portable is the device?
- How safe is the device for the individual to
operate?
- What kind of power source does the device require?
- How long is the device guaranteed to function?
- What is the life expectancy and average use?
- Are repair services convenient?
- Is there regular maintenance that will need to be
performed on the device?
- Will the device work well with the family lifestyle
of the individual potentially using the device?
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No. Assistive Technology (AT) can be used at home, work
or school. AT can also be used at the beach, park, theater, and shopping mall.
AT can be used anywhere.
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There are different programs which may help to cover the
cost of assistive technology. Eligibility may depend on income, assets and a
complex web of other conditions. Private health insurance may also cover some
expenses.
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Experts say that you should try out the device before
actually purchasing it to make sure it will suit your needs. Since it is
important to try out a device before buying it there are many businesses that
rent or loan Assistive Technology.
Some companies that sell assistive technology let
customers try the device before they purchase it. They may also let the
customer return the device after it has been purchased if it does not meet the
individual's needs.
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