What is Assistive Technology?

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Assistive Technology

People with disabilities today are leading more independent lives than in generations past, often with the assistance of devices designed to help them with everyday activities, collectively called assistive technology. Learn more about the types of assistive technology available, how to find devices and where to get help paying for them. 

What is Assistive Technology?

A prosthetic limb, a hearing aid, special switches for home appliances—all are considered assistive technology, or things that help people with disabilities live more independent lives. Use the links in this section to learn how assistive technology can help people of all ages.

Dulcinea's Insight

  • Assistive technology is also abbreviated as AT online.
  • Some good places on the Web to find information about assistive technologies are at the Web sites of AT and disability advocacy organizations, AT developers, and hospital and training centers.

Dulcinea's Picks

For an overview of assistive technology …
The Alliance for Technology Access offers an overview called “Taking the Mystery Out of Assistive Technology” that explains what it is. This piece also offers advice on the experts who recommend devices, and what to consider when selecting AT.
go to site »
For children …
The Family Center on Technology and Disability has a guide for families whose children need AT. The guide discusses what assistive technology can do for kids, and includes step-by-step advice and people’s stories. Use the links on the right to navigate the site.
go to site »
For senior citizens …
The Administration on Aging has a four-page PDF fact sheet that describes the different categories of assistive technology. This piece also describes AT’s benefits, and how to tell whether AT is right for you.
go to site »
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Types of Assistive Technology

All sorts of assistive technology exist, from items that would be considered ... read more »

Finding and Financing Assistive Technology

As assistive technology grows more sophisticated, the costs associated with it can rise, too. ... read more »

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