Assistive Technology Devices In Action For People With Disabilities

Summary

Rachel Loria, a Disability Rights Advocate, introduces various examples of low-tech Assistive Technology (AT) to support daily life. She highlights tools such as the Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) for communication, adapted playing cards with larger print and Braille, and an affordable adapted key for easier apartment access. Other tools include an adaptive sponge for easier personal hygiene, utensils for people with shaky hands, a visual schedule for daily tasks, and a magnification glass for reading small text. These simple yet effective tools make a significant impact in enhancing independence and accessibility.

Takeaways

• 😀 Assistive Technology (AT) can be categorized into high-tech and low-tech options.
• 😀 Low-tech Assistive Technology is often simpler to use and can be extremely effective for daily life.
• 😀 The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) helps individuals communicate needs by using pictures.
• 😀 Larger print and Braille on playing cards can assist people with visual impairments in social settings.
• 😀 Adaptive tools, like a key with a larger surface for easier turning, help individuals with physical limitations access everyday spaces.
• 😀 Grabbers are useful tools for reaching items that are difficult to access in the home or office.
• 😀 Adaptive sponges with extended handles allow people with mobility limitations to clean hard-to-reach areas.
• 😀 Specialized utensils with added weight can assist individuals with tremors when eating.
• 😀 Adaptive plates and bowls with higher edges can help prevent food from spilling for people with limited dexterity.
• 😀 Visual schedules and social stories are helpful for individuals with cognitive challenges, offering structure and coping strategies.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of Rachel Loria's work?

Rachel Loria is a Disability Rights Advocate at the disAbility Law Center of Virginia. Her work primarily focuses on Assistive Technology (AT), especially in the school system and employment settings.

What are the two main categories of Assistive Technology (AT)?

The two main categories of Assistive Technology (AT) are high-tech and low-tech.

What is the PECS system, and how does it work?

PECS stands for Picture Exchange Communication System. It is a low-tech communication tool where individuals use pictures to communicate needs or desires, such as giving a picture of 'cereal' to request it.

How can Assistive Technology be useful in social settings like playing cards?

Assistive Technology can be used in social settings, such as playing cards, by making tools accessible to individuals with visual impairments. For example, playing cards with larger print and Braille allow those who are blind or have low vision to participate.

How are the adapted playing cards designed for individuals with visual impairments?

The adapted playing cards have larger print for those with low vision and include Braille to help individuals who are blind read the cards. The numbers are also more prominent, making it easier for users to identify them.

What is the purpose of the adapted key?

The adapted key is designed for individuals who have difficulty turning a regular key in a lock. It provides a larger surface area for gripping, making it easier to access homes or workplaces.

How does the grabber tool help users?

The grabber tool allows individuals to pick up or reach objects that are difficult to access, whether in a home or office setting.

What is the purpose of the adaptive sponge?

The adaptive sponge helps individuals who have difficulty reaching certain areas of their body in the shower. It features a long handle to make it easier to clean areas that are hard to reach.

How do the adapted utensils help individuals with tremors or shaking hands?

The adapted utensils are heavier than regular utensils, which helps stabilize the hand of individuals who experience shaking or tremors while eating, making it easier for them to use the utensils.

What is a social story, and how is it used?

A social story is a tool designed to help individuals navigate specific situations or emotions. It can provide coping strategies, such as sorting through difficult feelings, and can be interactive, allowing individuals to choose strategies and communicate them to others.

What is the visual schedule, and how does it assist with daily tasks?

A visual schedule is a tool that helps individuals organize and manage their daily tasks. It allows users to see their schedule visually, peel off tasks as they complete them, and track their progress throughout the day.

How does the magnification glass work as an Assistive Technology tool?

The magnification glass helps individuals read small text by enlarging it, making it easier for people with low vision to read materials or documents.