Types of Assistive Technologies for the Disabled

Assistive technologies are utilized by the disabled, to complete tasks that they would otherwise find daunting, or virtually impossible to accomplish. Fortunately, the United States Federal Government recognized the need for Assistive Technology (AT) and took legal action. The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) reports that in 1998 the "Tech Act", officially penned the Assistive Technology Act was enacted by Congress which provided funding for AT equipment and services for the disabled.

Alternative Communication and Alternative Listening and Seeing Devices

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a type of assistive technology that is reserved for people with disabilities who have difficulties expressing themselves with spoken words. According to Microsoft.com, text-to-speech (TTS) devices are often used by individuals with disabilities. These devices allow a person to type their thoughts into a computer that will in turn use a computerized voice to recite the thoughts out loud. These devices can also help the blind hear what is typed without the need to see the words, and the deaf to convert audible speech to type that can be viewed on the computer screen.

Adapted Computer Access

• According to Mississippi State University, computers are tools that people with disabilities can use to be more productive in their lives. Adapted computer access involves making adjustments to computer equipment that will allow a person with disabilities to operate it without having to fumble with a mouse or a keyboard that is too small to operate successfully. This form of assistive technology may come in the form of a keyboard that can be operated with one hand or a joystick that can be manipulated with the feet or chin. Touch screens, Braille embossed keyboard controls, screen enlargers and trackballs are also forms of adapted computer access that are available for people with disabilities.

Environmental Controls

• Assistive technology can also come in the form of electronic devices that aid individuals with disabilities in their everyday lives. Environmental controls are a type of assistive technology that may be in the form of a remote control or other electronic device that can control light sources, heat, air-conditioning, telephones or doors; all at the touch of a button. In the book "Common-Sense Classroom Management Technique for Working with Students with Significant Disabilities" author Jill A. Lindberg explains that the utilization of environmental controls can be as simple as the installation of a wall-mounted switch or as intricate as a wireless system that controls a series of items with the push of a single button.

Prosthetics and Mobility

• Prosthetics are a form of assistive technology that can help those with disabilities reach their full potential and overcome their limitations. Some forms of prosthetics are cochlear implants and artificial hands. But prosthetics are not the only form of assistive technology that can help the disabled live fuller lives. In fact, the United Cerebral Palsy National of Washington, DC reports that in 2003 Federal guidelines mapped out a new set of laws that made it possible for people with disabilities to receive the assistive technologies that they needed to work or attend school. Mobility devices such as wheelchairs, crutches walkers and van lifts all fall under this category of Federal laws.

Universal Design

• Universal Design (UD) is an assistive technology that is all about removing barriers and providing access for all individuals, including those who have a disability. North Carolina State University explains that ADA, also known as the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, mandated by Federal law the removal of all physical barriers that impede access to public buildings, services, programs, telecommunications and transportation. This form of assistive technology has included the redesigning of buildings, installation of cutout sidewalks, Braille ATM machines and levers on doors instead of cumbersome door knobs.