Assistive Technology for People with Disabilities
Assistive technology (AT) is not about having gadgets, it’s about independence, accessibility, and dignity for people with disabilities. These special types of tools and devices make everyday tasks more accessible.
Imagine trying to send a text message without being able to see the screen, hear the notification, or type with your hands. Now picture a tool that reads messages aloud, allows voice replies, or types words using eye-tracking. That’s what assistive technology does. It removes barriers and provides access, enabling people to engage in tasks that might otherwise be impossible.
However, AT is difficult to obtain and often expensive. People who need it face challenges due to insurance limitations and high costs.
6 Categories of Assistive Technology Solutions
Assistive technology for people with disabilities can fit into more than one category depending upon the person’s needs as well as how and where the person uses the technology.
Vision
Examples of devices used for accessing computers, wayfinding, daily living activities, and other needs for people who are visually impaired or blind.
- Braille displays and notetakers
- Screen reading software
- Text-to-speech systems using OCR
- Screen Magnifiers
- Braille keyboards
- Talking devices such as a talking thermostat
- Smart glasses
- Phones with large tactile buttons
Hearing
Products used for daily living activities, communication, and other needs for people who are hard of hearing or deaf. Examples include:
- Vibrating alarm clocks
- Personal amplification systems
- Portable closed captioning system
- Amplified telephones
- Mobile devices with texting or specialized apps
- Wireless TV listening systems
- Doorbell with flashing light alert
- Phone with captioning
Speech Communication
Products for people with speech disabilities who need assistance with speaking including face-to-face communication. Examples include:
- Fluency assistance devices
- Speech synthesis
- Communication boards
- Speech generating devices
- Voice amplification systems
- Speech-making software
- Artificial larynx
- Text-to-speech software
Mobility, Seating & Positioning
Examples of devices and tools for mobility impairment designed for people with limited movement to help them full participate in daily life.
- Manual or power-operated wheelchairs
- Motorized scooters
- Smart canes
- Walkers
- Power chairs
- Adaptive beds
- Transfer devices
- Adaptive seating
Learning, Cognitive & Developmental
Examples of assistive tools and devices for people who need assistance with memory, organization, attention, and learning.
- Text-to-speech (TTS)
- Graphic organizers
- Speech-to-text (STT)
- Alternative keyboards
- Speech generating devices
- Notetaking systems
- Mobile devices with specialized apps
- Smart technology
Vehicle Modification & Transportation
Products that promote safe access to transportation and increase independence through vehicle adaptations. Examples include:
- Vehicle lifts
- Adaptive seatbelts
- Raised vehicle roofs
- Vehicle ramps
- Tie & lockdowns (secures wheelchair in vehicle)
- Hand controls
Funding for Assistive Technology
AT has been a part of the human experience for thousands of years. In fact, the first recorded use of a wheelchair dates back to 5th Century China. And the invention of eyeglasses was between 1268 and 1289 in Italy. However, today’s assistive technology for people with disabilities is far more advanced than what was built thousands of years ago. As such, the cost can be quite expensive depending on the types of tools and devices needed. If you’re needing assistance with funding, check out our assistive technology funding resources page.