What is Assistive Technology

A person uses a tool to examine or work on a small mechanical component, surrounded by various tools and parts on a workbench. The workspace is organized with items like wrenches and a container in the background.

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What is assistive technology?

Assistive technology is any piece of equipment, software program, or product system that increases, maintains, or improves the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. These extensive tools span from low-tech to high-tech and are tailored to individual needs, preferences, and user-specific goals.

Who can benefit from assistive technology?

People who can benefit from assistive technology include those with:

  • Mobility barriers due to traumatic injury, paralysis, amputation, or other conditions
  • Visual barriers due to blindness or low vision
  • Hearing loss
  • Cognitive and learning disabilities
  • Speech or communication-related disabilities
  • Neurological conditions like cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury
  • Older adults experiencing age-related challenges

Examples low-tech assistive technology

Low-tech assistive technology refers to simple, often non-electronic tools or devices that are designed to assist individuals in performing daily tasks. Some examples of low-tech assistive technology include communication boards, mouth sticks, zipper pulls, pen grips, or magnifiers.

Grips

Grips, made of flexible materials like rubber or foam, are designed to be slipped onto a stylus or pen, providing a more comfortable and ergonomic grip for individuals with finger and hand weaknesses.

Cell phone mounts

Cell phone mounts provide easy and convenient access to the device without the need to hold it. The mounts are adjustable, allowing users to position their phones at the most comfortable and accessible angle.

Cup holder attachments

Attached to a wheelchair, cup holders provide a secure space to keep a beverage, eliminating individuals needing to hold a drink between their legs or manage it with one hand.

Examples of high-tech assistive technology

High-tech assistive technology is more sophisticated, featuring digital or electronic components, often with computerized functionalities. High-tech assistive technology can include custom wheelchairs, door openers, speech recognition programs, text-to-speech systems, environmental control units, and more.

Motion sensor glasses

GlassOuse motion sensor glasses facilitate hands-free interaction with computers or iPads using subtle head movements. Head gestures are tracked by motion sensors, translating them into on-screen cursor movements, and a bite switch functions as a click.

Sip-and-puff devices

Sip and Puff devices enable users to input commands by “sipping” or “puffing” air into a wand resembling a straw. This action generates air pressure, activating specific commands for the wheelchair, like moving forward and backward and turning left and right.

Hand controls

Hand controls integrated into adaptive vehicles feature sophisticated electronic and mechanical systems, empowering individuals with mobility impairments to operate a vehicle safely. These controls are adaptable, allowing customization to meet the needs and preferences of the driver.