Assistive Technology

Question 1

What is assistive technology?

Answer 1

Assistive technology is an umbrella term covering the systems and services related to the delivery of assistive products and services.
In traditional definitions these services have been thought of as a device to enhance the daily living for persons with disabilities.
Devices of this nature include: wheelchairs, hearing aids, communication aids, prosthetic limbs, and glasses.

Question 2

What are other terms related to assistive technology?

Answer 2

Adaptive equipment
- long handle sponge, shoe horn, sock aide
Smart home technology
- Echo, Ring doorbell
Home modifications
- grab bars
Aging in place supports

Question 3

What are the societal benefits of AT?

Answer 3

Reducing healthcare costs
Increasing productivity
Promoting inclusivity
Reducing the stigma associated with disability

Question 4

What are different types of AT?

Answer 4

Low tech
High tech

Question 5

Describe low tech AT.

Answer 5

Low tech assistive technology refers to simple and inexpensive devices, tools, or strategies that can assist people with disabilities in performing daily activities.
These technologies often do not require electricity or advanced technology and can be easily found or created with commonly available materials. Examples of low tech assistive technology include:
- Bump dots
- Reachers
- Weighted pens
- Faucet extenders

Question 6

Describe high tech AT.

Answer 6

High tech assistive technology refers to the use of advanced and sophisticated devices, software, and equipment that help individuals with disabilities or impairments to perform everyday tasks and activities. These technologies can include anything from:
- Computer software
- Specialized communication devices
- Advanced prosthetics androbotics
High tech assistive technology often involves the use of computer-based systems, which can be customized to meet the specific needs of each individual whether they are physical, sensory or cognitive impairments.

Question 7

What is a magnifier?

Answer 7

These low tech devices enlarge text, images, or objects to make them easier to see. They can be handheld or mounted on a stand and come in various magnification levels.

Question 8

What is a screen reader?

Answer 8

These software programs read text on a computer or mobile device out loud to the user. They can also provide audio feedback for other actions on the device, such as clicking on a button.

Question 9

What is an electronic magnifier?

Answer 9

These are handheld or desktop devices that use cameras and screens to magnify text or objects. They often have features like adjustable contrast and lighting to make the image clearer.

Question 10

What are Braille displays?

Answer 10

These are devices that convert digital text into braille characters that can be read by touch. They can be used with computers or mobile devices and are useful for people who are blind or have severe low vision.

Question 11

What are voice activated assistants?

Answer 11

These devices like Amazon Alexa or Google Home can be controlled with voice commands and can perform tasks like playing music, setting reminders, and providing information.

Question 12

What are talking watches and clocks?

Answer 12

These devices announce the time audibly, making it easier for people with low vision to keep track of time.

Question 13

What are color identification devices?

Answer 13

These devices can identify and announce the colors of objects, which can be useful for people with color blindness or difficulty distinguishing between colors.

Question 14

What are types of AT that can aid in low vision?

Answer 14

Magnifiers
Screen readers
Electronic magnifiers
Braille displays
Voice-activated assistants
Talking watches and clocks
Color identification devices

Question 15

AT for aging in place

Answer 15

Intentional lighting
Mobility related devices
Home modification
Smart home technology
Medication management
Personal emergency response systems (PRES)
Remote monitoring systems

Question 16

What is intentional lighting?

Answer 16

Create a reading “home base” where the lighting is optimal for doing the hardest vision tasks like reading the newspaper. Use daylight bulbs with at least 5000K on thecolor temperatureand direct the light at the reading material.

Question 17

What are mobility related devices?

Answer 17

Tools like raised toilet seats, shower chairs, walkers, and bed rails are all devices that are low tech and help with aging in place.

Question 18

What is home modification?

Answer 18

Things like offset hinges, grab bars, lever handles and pull-down shelves need to be installed but are low tech and can make living at home more functional

Question 19

What is smart home technology?

Answer 19

Using a hub like Google Home orAmazon Alexa Showand integrating smart plugs, light bulbs, thermostats, video doorbells and door locks can make it so that even someone with the most limited mobility can operate a majority of things right from their cell phone.

Question 20

What is medication management?

Answer 20

We know it is really key to be taking medications correctly to avoid hospitalization and there are a lot of ways to manage medications including pill boxes andpre-packed pouches. But you can add some tech and get even more functionality by using thisautomatic pill dispenseror evenSpenser by Custom Healthwhich talks, can log vital signs and even connect the person with their provider for a telehealth visit!

Question 21

What are personal emergency response systems?

Answer 21

PERS are wearable or stationary devices that can automatically call for help in the event of a fall or other emergency. This could be something affordable with alow monthly feeor something you pay for once like anApple Watchwhich has the technology built in!

Question 22

What are remote monitoring systems?

Answer 22

Remote monitoringsystems use sensors to track the person’s activity levels, detect potential health issues, and alert caregivers or family members if there are any concerns and can even do it without cameras, providing a little bit more privacy for older adults.

Question 23

How is AT paid for?

Answer 23

Many times, assistive technology ends up being paid for out of pocket (which explains the numbers above about the massive disconnect between need and access.) But, there are also several avenues for funding. The Assistive Technology Industry Association does a great job of laying out thebasic funding options:
- School systems
- Government programs, Federal (Medicaid and Medicare), State programs (ADRS STAR), AllKids
- Private health insurance
- Rehabilitation and job training programs
- Employers

Question 24

What is RESNA?

Answer 24

Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America

The premier professional organization dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of people with disabilities through increasing access to technology solutions. RESNA advances the field by offering certification, continuing education, and professional development; developing assistive technology standards; promoting research and public policy; and sponsoring forums for the exchange of information and ideas to meet the needs of our multidisciplinary constituency.

RESNA’s goal is “To maximize the health and well being of people with disabilities through technology.”

The purpose of RESNA is to contribute to the public welfare through scientific, literary, professional and educational activities by supporting the development, dissemination, and utilization of knowledge and practice of rehabilitation and assistive technology in order to achieve the highest quality of life for all citizens.

Question 25

What is the STAR program?

Answer 25

STAR is one of 56 Assistive Technology Act Programs federally funded by Health and Human Services Administration for Community Living (HHS/ACL). STAR is administered through the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (ADRS) whose mission is to enable all Alabamians with disabilities to achieve their maximum potential.

STAR guides individuals through the process of locating and obtaining technology to assist them at work, school, play, and in everyday life.

STAR services are free and available to Alabamians regardless of disability or age.

Mission: To increase access to and acquisition of, assistive technology for Alabamians of all ages and all disabilities through a variety of comprehensive activities, programs and services available statewide.