By Jamie Arasz Prioli, RESNA ATP

Congress defines assistive technology (AT) 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 the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.” (29 U.S.C. Sec 2202(2). Sound complicated? Well…it’s not!

People have called AT names such as “gadgets”, “thing-a-ma-jigs” and “doodads”. Basically, assistive technology is any item or piece of equipment that allows individuals with disabilities use their own unique abilities to reach their goals. AT can be as simple as a jar opener, a grab bar or cane, or as sophisticated as a voice-activated computer or power wheelchair. Assistive technology devices are basically helpful products that improve a person’s ability to live and function independently.

An assistive technology service is any service that directly assists an individual in the selection or use of an assistive technology device (20 U.S.C. Sec. 1401 (26). This definition means that any services including customization, design, evaluation, funding, maintenance, repair, therapy, training or technical assistance is considered an assistive technology service. So many people use assistive technology devices and services. Both are used by infants, children and adults with any type of disability. Every day individuals with disabilities who want to be independent can do so with the use of assistive technology.

Assistive technology devices can be broken down into several categories. Categories include, but are not limited to:

* Adapted toys
* Aids for low vision
* Aids for daily living
* Assistive listening devices
* Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
* Computer access
* Environmental adaptations
* Recreation, sports, and leisure
* Seating, positioning, and mobility
* Switches and environmental control units
* Tools for learning
* Vehicle modification and transportation


The area of assistive technology has grown tremendously in recent years, and many manufacturers and vendors provide a wide range of products and devices. It can be confusing, however, to determine which device might be right. Here are a few basic tips to help in this task:

* Focus on the actual tasks that you want or need to do when choosing devices. While this might seem obvious, it’s easy to get drawn into buying a product that looks good or is the newest on the market, yet doesn’t really address your needs.
* Generally, it is best to pick the simplest product available to meet the need. You know…K.I.S.S. Simpler devices are often easier to use, less expensive, and easier to repair and maintain than more complex devices.
* Ask the experts! Professionals like assistive technology practitioners, rehabilitation specialists, physical and occupational therapists can help establish which type of technology might be best for you.
* Ask other people with disabilities what products they have found to be helpful.
* Ask to use the device on a trial basis to see if it is truly going to meet your needs.
* Ultimately, your opinion about a certain piece of AT is the most important. The device needs to be comfortable, attractive, and simple to use.


This article’s feature website is the National Public Website on Assistive Technology. For more information visit them on the web at www.assistivetech.net