The term “assistive technology” is used to describe 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 the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Put simply, assistive technology, or AT, is any tool or device that helps increase an individual’s independence and allows them to more fully participate in activities. This definition is very broad in scope, encompassing anything from simple modified utensils that enable an individual with severe arthritis to eat independently to voice recognition software to allow someone to control a computer with the sound of their voice – and everything in between. Some assistive technology is homemade and was created by caregivers and consumers out of necessity.

For caregivers, assistive technology, especially aids for daily living (ADLs), can make a world of difference in the lives of the individuals they care for. Whether it is modified utensils, dressing and grooming aids, or mobility aids, these devices give a person more independence to do tasks they otherwise would not be able to do with out assistance. For caregivers, assistive technology can make the job of caring for a loved one much easier.

There are many places for caregivers to turn for assistance. There are many companies that sell difference assistive devices as well as many professionals who are available to offer advice, share their knowledge and offer technical assistance.

Caregiver Resources

ABLEDATA: searchable assistive technology database
http://www.abledata.com/

Alliance for Technology Access
http://www.ataccess.org/

Attain (Indiana’s Assistive Technology Program)
http://www.attaininc.org

CAST
http://www.cast.org/

Infinitec.Org
http://infinitec.org/learn/money/fundinggeneral.html

Indiana Parent Information Network
http://www.ipin.org/

Lighthouse International
http://www.lighthouse.org/default.htm

Maxi Aids
http://www.maxiaids.com

PATINS
http://www.patinsproject.com/

The Trace Center Resource Page
http://trace.wisc.edu/resources/

Tech Connections
http://www.techconnections.org/training/ac_051299/at&idea.cfm

Professionals Involved in the Selection of Assistive Technology

American Occupational Therapy Association
http://www.aota.org/

American Physical Therapy Association
http://www.apta.org/

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.asha.org/default.htm

Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America
http://www.resna.org/

Tetra Society of North America
http://www.tetrasociety.org

Infinitec
http://www.infinitec.org

Additional Products and Resources

Garden Forever for Gardeners of all ages and abilities
http://www.gardenforever.com/

Home of the individual recreational vehicle from Trac About, Inc.
http://www.tracabout.com/

Palmirani Wheelchair
http://www.palmirani.com/index_uk.html

Door Butler
http://www.doorbutler.com/

Kimball Products, Inc. – American made off road utility vehicles
http://www.kimballproducts.com/Index.htm

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Breaking New Ground and Purdue University are not responsible for the privacy practices or the content of any websites to which we link. Organizations, products and web pages which are not specifically described as being endorsed or affiliated with Purdue University are for informational purposes only and their inclusion does not constitute an endorsement.