Assistive technology can increase an individual’s independence, enhance their quality of life, and give them control over their well-being. While that may seem like a big promise, it is easily achievable. Almost everyone uses assistive technology, but often it’s seen as a gadget, tool, device or piece of software that makes things easier for the user. However, for someone that experiences a barrier because of an impairment or disability, it can be life-changing.
Examples of assistive technology include:
personal listening devices for amplifying sound
magnifiers for reading prescriptions, ingredients or instructions
adaptive tableware for easier dining; alerting devices for notifying caregivers of wants, needs or movement
medication management systems for getting alerts to take medication
smart devices such as tablets and virtual assistants to customize to your needs
and so much more.
No solution can meet everyone’s needs, so Assistive Technology of Alaska (ATLA) provides assistive technology demonstrations for any Alaskan to compare and contrast equipment options. There are no age or income requirements to work with ATLA. The Assistive Technology Specialists at ATLA will help determine an individual’s eligibility for programs that provide assistive technology equipment and services at no cost to the end user.
Lifetime equipment loans
TechAbiltiy is a program funded through an ongoing state appropriation under the Mental Health Bill, is provided by the Alaska Dept. of Health, and is supported by the Alaska Mental Health Trust. This program offers lifetime equipment loans to Alaskans who are Mental Health Trust beneficiaries. After three years of providing equipment to Alaskans, ATLA has found that the options included in the program significantly impact an individual’s wellbeing as it gives them more independence in their daily life and control of their surroundings.
Find out if you qualify for TechAbility by visiting http://www.atlaak.org. Then, contact the ATLA team to get started on your assistive technology journey and to learn more about the solutions that could benefit you.
Tori Gingras is an ATLA outreach specialist.
