Womans-Corner
Articles and Information for Working Women and Family
Special Needs Children

The advice contained within these articles is offered for your consideration by Lisa Simmons. You, as a parent or professional, must decide whether any of the ideas presented here should be implemented in your unique situation. The staff of the Ideal Lives Project encourage all site visitors to always utilize this information in a manner that is respectful and in the best interest of their child, student or loved one.

Assistive Technology: It Doesn't Have to be Scarey
by Lisa Simmons

1. Don't let it scare you

For many disability professionals the advent of technology is a whole new world. The most important thing you can do as a professional is to assume "an explorers mentality". A "let's see what's out there" attitude takes you out of the position of being the person with all the answers (since none of us are) but still allows you to explore the possibilities. This way your fear only motivates you to seek, not to hide!

2. Take advantage of the pros

Most states have an assistive technology project that is staffed by people who are "experts" at assistive technology. Find out where your state project is located (it may be a single location or they may have outreach locations spread across the state) & how to reach them. These individuals can become a tremendous resource for you not only in identifying possible technology solutions, but by providing training in their use, helping access funding for high cost items, & providing advocacy support or "expertise" at interdisciplinary team meetings.

3. Don't assume technology is always hi-tech

Many assistive technology resource sites have sections on low tech & low cost solutions. This is true not only because indivduals usually aren't working with unlimited budgets, but also because sometimes the best solution is a simple one. Low tech devices are usually more readily available, take less know how to implement (therefore a greater number of support people can feel comfortable supporting their use), & will frequently be less inclined to break down & need repair (or be simple enough to allow local repair).

4. Funding is an issue, but don't let high prices keep you away

If your team has determined that a particular piece of assistive technology is appropriate & necessary to allow a child to access a free, appropriate education or an adult to participate in productive employment, then chances are you will be eligible for funding assistive to help purchase the device or one with similar capabilities.

5. Don't associate assistive technology only with severe multiple handicaps.

Check out the suggestions in web resource section for using A.T. to support behavioral issues & learning disabilities.

6. Don't just think wheelchairs

Today there are technology devices to help with every part of an individuals life (caring for themselves, communicating, using a computer, controlling things in their environment. Modifying work tasks, even modifying cars so they can be driven independently.

So fear not! A little creativity and a willingness to explore the possibilites are the only tools you need to take the plunge into today's assitive technology!

All My Best,

* Note: If you should discover a broken link within the above article, please contact the Author and inform them of the problem. Thank you.