|
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive Technology refers to any item, device, piece of equipment, or
set of products that is used to maintain or improve the functional
capabilities of a person with a disability. Assistive technology
can allow a person with disabilities to function more independently,
thereby gaining self-confidence and increased functional independence.
What are some examples of assistive technology?
Not all assistive technology products are expensive, complex, sophisticated
computer systems. Further, some devices are not designed primarily
for persons with disabilities but can make life easier for anyone.
Examples of equipment that enables individuals to carry out activities
of daily living include: eating and cooking utensils that are
fitted with oversized handles for easier gripping, shower benches
and bathtub lifts that may alleviate difficulties in the bathroom,
and wheelchair lifts which allow access up and down stairways.
Who can use these devices?
Many individuals can benefit from assistive technology. Older adults
with mild impairments such as arthritis can use these devices.
Individuals with moderate impairments may find that assistive
technology supplements their informal care but does not replace
their need for personal assistance in some areas.
Persons with severe impairments may find equipment such as advanced computer
and communication systems offer the most assistance. Persons with
multiple impairments may find that their ability to use devices
is very limited. Appropriate assessments of the needs and functioning
capacities of people with multiple disabilities are vital to find
the appropriate device(s) for them. Also, people with cognitive
impairments may find assistive devices are difficult to understand
and use correctly.
Why is assistive technology important?
Assistive technology presents many advantages for its users.
- It has the potential to save money in the long run by substituting
for the care of personal assistants.
- It can improve the quality of life for many seniors and persons
with disabilities by promoting autonomy and self-sufficiency.
- Assistive technology can help people remain functionally independent in
their communities for a longer period of time.
What are some special concerns for assistive technology users?
There are several factors that need to be addressed when promoting the
use of assistive technology.
- Training is needed for the device to work effectively. Caregivers must
be realistic about the elder's limitations and they should have
a positive attitude about the capabilities of the device. It
would be best if an instructor is available to offer training
in the person's home, teaching both the elder and the family
members or caregiver about the proper use, importance and convenience
of the device.
- Assistive technology sometimes involves ongoing technological support.
For instance, when it is time to pay for the maintenance or
replacement of equipment difficulties may emerge. A person cannot
just be given a device and left to use it without any training.
- Choosing the appropriate equipment is fundamental to helping people accept
and use the device. The potential user should be adequately
assessed regarding his or her need for assistive technology.
This helps to assure that the right match is made with the proper
equipment.
- The look of assistive technology devices may contribute to a person's
likelihood of rejecting them. Rather than making devices bulky,
awkward, or cumbersome, a new approach to design should reflect
more appealing and suitable mechanisms. Consideration should
be given to the stigma that can be attributed to assistive devices
and the generally negative stereotypical attitudes of society.
Cost of assistive technology?
Assistive devices range considerably in price. None of the major sources
of health care funding for the elderly offer comprehensive coverage
for assistive technology. The Medicare Part B program will pay
for a portion of the cost of assistive technology as long as it
meets the definition of "durable medical equipment." This is defined
as items that are "primarily and customarily used to serve a medical
purpose, and generally are not useful to a person in the absence
of illness or injury."
The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) purchases many assistive devices
for eligible individuals. The VA purchases hearing and visual
aids, wheelchairs, van adaptive aids, patient lifts, hospital
beds, and other medical equipment. It has a very comprehensive
system which offers extensive staff, education and training personnel,
and invests in research and development for assistive technology.
Subsidy programs are another alternative for financing assistive technology.
These programs may provide equipment at reduced cost or free of
charge. The subsidy may be in the form of a grant, a rebate, or
a discount, and it may target specific products. These programs
promote broader distribution of devices and encourage people,
who might not otherwise have considered it, to use assistive technology.
Additional resources:
- Your
physician can be a good resource for obtaining assistive technology
and other durable medical equipment that may help you. A written
prescription from your doctor may help you obtain insurance
coverage for the assistive device.
- Local
pharmacies, hardware, department, and medical supply stores
carry assistive products and devices. Some sources for mail-order
home care supplies & aids are:
J.C.
Penney 'Special Needs Catalog'; call toll-free 1-800-222-6161
Sears 'Home Health Care Catalog'; call toll-free 1-800-326-1750
Ableware Independent Living from Maddak, Inc; call 1-973-628-7600
Independent Living Aids, Inc.; call toll-free 1-800-537-2118
- Center
for Assistive Technology
University of Buffalo
515 Kimball Tower
Buffalo, NY 14214-3079
1-800-628-2281
- Lighthouse
International
111 East 59th
New York, NY 10022-1202
1-800-829-0500
- Rehabilitation
Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America
RESNA
1700 North Moore Street, Suite 1540
Arlington, VA 22209-1903
(703) 524-6686
TTY: (703) 524-6639
- Contact
your County Office on Aging, by calling NJEASE 1-877-222-3737.
Out-of-state callers using this number will be connected to
the State Information and Assistance Senior Helpline.
Return to Top
|
Skip to navigation
