Assistive Technology General Overview

In order to effectively be able to use these interactive case studies effectively, it is important to be able to understand the basics of assistive technology. This section will provide a brief overview, which will help explain the different sections of the OCCUTECH webpage program.

Assistive technology refers to "any item, piece of equipment or product systems, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" (Public Law 100-407, Sec. 3). Assistive technologies are used to enhance function, and health professionals such as occupational therapists are primarily concerned with restoring function to their clients. Naturally, assistive technology solutions are therefore very useful for health professionals so that they can maximally provide their clients with independent functional outcomes.

There are many categories of assistive technology which include:

• Daily Living Equipment
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Cognitive Retraining Technologies
• Computer Access
• (Adapted) Driving and Transportation
• Environment Control & Robotics
• Orthotics & Prosthetics
• Neuromuscular Retraining Technologies & Physical Agent Modalities
• Seating & Positioning
• Sensory Aids (vision, hearing)
• Wheeled Mobility
• Other technologies (i.e., virtual reality)

Assistive Technology Services include "any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device" (Public Law 100-407, Sec. 3).  These services include evaluation, intervention, and resource coordination.

This interactive case study web site will enable the user to examine each step of the service delivery process.
 
An additional component to the above schematic is also a very important and critical one. Somewhere between evaluation (and also before it) and implementation lies the FUNDING stage. Although this really isn't a stage, it can be more accurately described as an ongoing process. A process which a provider must be keenly astute to. Even with all the best intentions and need in the world, a consumer will not be able to benefit from needed AT if the funding process isn't successful. When applicable, this funding issue will be addressed in the context of various case studies. For further information, please examine the funding section in the AT resources page.