Access Technology Lab

A group of five people, some using wheelchairs, are in a room with shelves in the background. They are looking towards the ceiling, with expressions of excitement and wonder. One person raises an arm enthusiastically. The lighting casts a blue tone.

Explore the Center

Personalized assistive device and technology solutions for living, working, and playing

From the moment patients arrive at Shepherd Center until their return to the community, assistive technology therapy is an integral part of the rehabilitation journey. This therapeutic approach helps foster independence in daily activities like switching on a light, calling for help, or accessing a mobile phone, tablet, or computer.

The Access Technology Lab prioritizes building a deep understanding of each patient. This includes the unique aspects of their injury, day-to-day activities, and individual preferences. Collaboratively, therapists and patients explore innovative solutions, selecting the most suitable devices to meet each distinct need while unlocking new opportunities post-injury.

How can assistive technology support individuals with disabilities?

Assistive technology is designed to address various aspects of an individual’s life, including physical functioning, adaptation to daily living, mobility, communication, and overall well-being. Customized assistive technology solutions empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential following a traumatic injury or neurological disease. Some of the ways assistive technology can support individuals in daily life include:

  • Enhance independence to perform daily tasks like device access, drinking, and communicating.
  • Streamline the transition back to school by offering resources for reading, writing, and note-taking.
  • Facilitate a return to the workforce by assisting with tasks like composing emails, establishing adaptable workstations, and accessing digital documents.
    Remove barriers to enjoy recreational and leisure activities such as listening to music or playing video games.

Comprehensive assistive technology services we offer

Specialized assessments and evaluations

Our lab is equipped with a range of assistive devices and technologies. An occupational therapist conducts an in-depth interview to identify your goals, interests, needs, and physical abilities. These evaluations help identify the most suitable solutions for your unique lifestyle, functional capabilities, and goals.

Technology demonstrations and trials

We maintain an extensive inventory of switches, environmental control devices, and alternative access methods, allowing you to learn, test, and trial various assistive technologies before purchasing. This hands-on experience allows you to assess the compatibility of existing technology with your unique needs and preferences or to collaborate on creating something new.

Procurement of technology

Our lab specializes in adapting hardware, software, electronics, and appliances to meet your needs and ensure a perfect fit. We have established relationships with assistive technology vendors and manufacturers and can also assist in navigating the complex world of funding sources, including loans, grants, or other financial assistance programs.

Training and support

After technology procurement, our lab provides training and support to ensure the systems and technology can be used effectively in daily life. Specialists guide setup, operation, and troubleshooting. Follow-up services monitor the effectiveness of the technology and make any necessary adjustments or replacements as you progress through rehabilitation.

Types of assistive technologies we evaluate

Adaptive gaming technologies are designed to make video games and gaming platforms more accessible to individuals with diverse abilities. This includes customizable features like adaptive controllers, joysticks, and button configurations to cater to gamers with mobility, visual, or auditory impairments. These adaptations ensure that everyone can enjoy the benefits of recreational and social gaming.

Alternative device access methods for phones, tablets, computers, and alternative/augmentative communication devices. This may include an introduction to built-in accessibility features, adaptive styluses, high-tech alternative mice, voice recognition software, and touch-screen alternatives like eye-tracking devices and switches.

Electronic Aids to Daily Living include devices and solutions to control appliances or tools in the environment, such as adjusting room temperature, turning on/off lights, operating appliances, or opening doors. These systems often incorporate voice commands, switches, or smartphone apps, providing individuals with greater autonomy and control over their living spaces.

Mounting systems are used to secure devices and assistive tools in a way that suits the individual’s specific needs. For instance, mounting solutions can secure cell phones, tablets, or computer monitors to wheelchairs, desks, or other surfaces. This ensures the devices remain accessible and within reach for those with mobility or positioning challenges.

A person in a wheelchair smiles while two people on the left and one person on the right engage with them in a supportive setting. The room has a computer station and medical posters.

A team approach to assistive technology

Our multidisciplinary team — including therapists, driver rehabilitation specialists, and assistive technology experts — collaborates to provide top-tier care, helping you regain maximum independence.