Why Assistive Technology Awareness Matters

Assistive technology is a very broadened, yet important term for everyone to understand, as accessibility and individual needs are important to know so that everyone can be fully included and successful in our society. 

Definition

Assistive technology is defined 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 functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."  This does not include medical devices that are surgically placed (such as cochlear implants) or those that are medically necessary (IDEA, 2004).

Supporting Inclusion

The more we as a society are able to accept, understand, and utilize asstive technology, the more inclusive and integrated we can all be. Not everyone is going to be an expert in assistive technology, but attempting to learn more about it as well as always embracing others’ usage of it will always be of value.

Accessible Information

Having accessible information about assistive technology is also very important to ensure that assistive technology can be a widespread and commonly used, practiced, and accepted part of our everyday lives. The following points are some examples of information regarding assistive technology that you should know. 

Assistive Technology isn’t always visible

Assistive technology (AT) isn’t always a high tech device that everyone can easily see. AT can be software or mobile applications as well as low tech. So, just because you cannot easily see someone’s need for AT, such as a wheelchair, doesn’t mean that they don’t have AT needs in areas of life that you don’t easily see. 

Needs vary by individual and setting

AT needs and usage will always vary on the individual that needs the AT as well as the setting of the need, an example being a software for school or a low tech device to hold your phone easier. Therefore, acknowledging everyone’s individual needs is vital for full inclusion of everyone. The last point will help conclude this point. 

Free Online AT Modules

There are organizations that offer free online modules on assistive technology. More information and explanations about these modules can be found here.

State AT Programs

Every state has their own assistive technology (AT) program that, which varies by state, offers trials, tutorials, information, and loans for assistive technology. You can learn more about state AT programs by clicking here. 

AI can be a useful form of AT

As AI is a more trending topic in recent years, it can also be a form of AT to help serve individual needs on a day to day basis in both simple and complex means. You can learn more about AI as AT by reading AI & IDD or AI and Advanced Technology in Homes. 

3 Step AT Process

Our 3 Step AT Process is a valuable resource for anyone that needs to learn more about assistive technology and how to identify, acquire, and train for assistive technology. Awareness of all of these components matter, whether it be for you, a loved one, friend, or coworkers’ AT needs. To read that article, you can click here. 

Conclusion 

In total, assistive technology is important element that everyone should continue to learn and embrace, whether you or a loved one are in need of assistive technology or want to help better support individuals in school, work, and the community at large. As society continues to evolve both socially and technologically, assistive technology will evolve with both; so, it’s important to continue to learn and evolve as assistive technology advances. Part of 3DA’s job is to continue to provide modern day information about AT. You can read more about our overall technology priority by clicking here.