Also known as AT or adaptive equipment, assistive technology is any item or piece of equipment that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of life, including at school, at work, at home, and in the community (AT Act of 1998, as amended).
Assistive technology can increase independence in many ways. Whether you need lift equipment to get you out of bed in the morning, an adapted vehicle to get to and from work or a hearing aid to interact with your coworkers and employers, assistive technology can make a difference. Assistive technology can even make it possible for you to perform the essential functions of your job.
Assistive technology ranges from low-tech devices to high-tech equipment.
- Low-tech AT doesn't require much training, is often less expensive, and does not have complex or mechanical features. Examples of low-tech devices might include handheld magnifiers, large print text, paper and pen for communication, canes or walkers, color coding, automatic lights, and specialized pen or pencil grips.
- Middle-range AT may have some complex features, may be electronic or battery operated, may require some training, and is more expensive than the low-tech alternative. Some examples include manual wheelchairs, talking spell checkers, electronic organizers, larger computer monitors, books on tape, amplifiers, text pagers, closed-caption televisions, remote environmental controls, and a specialized mouse or keyboard for the computer.
- High-tech AT refers to complex equipment that has digital or electronic components, may be computerized, will likely require training, and cost the most. Examples of high-tech AT include power wheelchairs or scooters, prosthetics, digital hearing aids, computers with specialized software for voice recognition or visual magnification, digital hands-free headsets, voice-activated telephones, communication devices with voices, and digital books or information on MP3 players.
How do I know what kind of AT I need at work?
Often, you already know what type of assistive technology device you need to get your job done. If you feel uncertain, however, here are some things to consider:
- If you have used an AT device successfully in school or college, that same device may be just what you need in the workplace.
- Sometimes just brainstorming with your employer or supervisor and trying different items available in your work setting might be enough to find something that will work for you.
- Other times a formal assistive technology evaluation is needed to assess your work setting, job tasks, and abilities to determine what AT device you will need.
- Finally, talking with someone who has been through a similar experience may help you figure out which AT device to use.
Try before you buy!
Whenever possible, you should try the assistive technology device in the setting where you will be using it the most. Having a chance to try the device before you buy it gives you and your employer the opportunity to make an informed decision before spending money. You want to be sure that the device is going to do what you expect it to do. Using an AT Device Loan, attending an AT Demonstration at the New England Assistive Technology (NEAT) Marketplace (www.neatmarketplace.org), or renting the device from the manufacturer are ways that you can try before you buy.
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