Assistive Technology

This month, we want to focus on technology! For many of us, technology allows us to be more independent. If you have a cell phone, think about all the ways it supports you. Do you use it to check the time? Do math using the built in calculator? Call or text a friend? Get reminders for events on your calendar? Set alarms and timers? Checking your emails? Look up addresses? And the list goes on!

Technology is a very important part of planning conversations. This is true no matter how the technology is paid for. For example, the person might pay out-of-pocket, their private insurance might pay, or their plan authorizes payment. No matter what, talking about technology support is important!

Technology can support people in all areas of life. It might help someone connect with others and share their thoughts. It might help someone else get around their house or their community. Let’s look at a few examples found in the Assistive Technology Discussion Tool:

• Sue Ann chose a call button pendant that she wears at night so she can summon her provider if she falls. She feels a lot safer and more confident about getting up during the night when needed.
• Blanca uses a medication dosing and reminder device so that she can take her medications independently. It took some planning and support in the beginning, but now the responsibility is completely hers and she says she feels more capable and empowered than ever.
• Alex uses his tablet as a communication device. His team consulted with a speech therapist to provide technical assistance and training. Now all of Alex’s DSPs support him consistently and his expressive communication skills have skyrocketed!