Assistive Technology (AT)

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What is assistive technology?

Assistive technology (AT) includes any device, piece of equipment or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Assistive technology also includes services that directly assist an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

Examples of assistive technology (AT) devices, services and solutions

AT service examples include:

• Functional evaluations
• Training/demonstration of device
• Device loan, purchase, or lease assistance

AT solutions to increase independence at home:

Hearing: Amplified Telephones, Personal Amplification Systems, and Alerting Devices.

Memory: Medication Organizers, Talking Calendars, and Reminder apps.

Mobility: Couch Canes, Seat Canes, Walkers, and Manual Wheelchairs.

Vision: Magnifying Aids, Eye wear, Electronic Readers, and Talking Software.

AT solutions to increase independence in the community:

Wildlife: Switch Adapted Cameras, Image Stabilized and Focus Free Binoculars Switch Adapted Fishing Reels, Wheelchair Accessible Tent, High Quad Gun Mounts, and Limited Mobility Gun and Compound Bow Mounts.

Traveling: Portable Ramps, Personal Amplification Systems, even Four-Wheel Outdoor Scooters

Gardening: Long Handle Tools, Electric Pruners, Magnification aids, and Weed Zappers

Building: Anti-vibration and Battery Powered Hammers, Digital Angle Finders, Craftsman Ratchet Combination Wrench and Automatic Adjustable Wrenches

Auto Work: Portable Tire Step-Up Tool, Battery Powered Grease Gun, and Cordless Ratchet

AT solutions to increase independence with education:

Learning:Talking Computer Software, Word Prediction Programs, Multicolored Keyboards, and Voice Recognition Software

Vision:Hand-held and Desktop Magnification aids, Talking Scanning Programs, Eyewear, Large Print Keyboards, Magnification Software and Screenreaders

Hearing:Personal Amplification Systems, Amplified Powered Neckloop, Shake Awake Alarm Clocks, Portable Induction Loops, and Amplified stethoscopes

Organization:Digital Reading Pens, Recorders, Voice Labeling Systems, Reminder Watches, Time Management Apps, personal coaching software, and mind mapping software

AT solutions to increase independence at work:

• Ergonomic Risk Assessments
• Organization and Time Management Assessments
• Vision assistive technology assessments
• Hearing assistive technology assessments

Oregon's designated assistive technology program

Access Technologies, Inc. is Oregon’s designated statewide assistive technology program. They provide information and referral and offer many resources and services, including:

• Device loan library to borrow assistive technology devices
• Online marketplace to purchase assistive technology devices
• AT device demonstrations, assessments, and training

Visit Access Technologies, Inc. online or call Toll-free voice/TTY: 1-800-677-7512 for more information and assistance with your assistive technology needs.

Assistive technology resources

• Job Accommodation Network (JAN) offers free, expert, and confidential guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues.
• University of Washington, DO-IT Disabilities, Opportunities, Internetworking, and Technology promotes the success of individuals with disabilities in postsecondary education and career, using technology as an empowering tool.
• Northwest Access Fund provides Assistive Technology loans for Oregon residents of all ages with disabilities of all types, including seniors with age-related functional limitations.

You can also Connect with your Local ADRC or Search the Resource Database to learn more about assistive technology resources in your community.