Chances are you've encountered assistive technology in your daily life without realizing it. Have you ever used technology like Siri on an iPhone, a smart home device like Amazon's Alexa, or even simpler devices like an electric toothbrush or a pair of noise-canceling headphones? While these have become everyday conveniences, assistive technology is particularly beneficial for people with disabilities
Assistive technology has evolved significantly over the years, from basic tools to sophisticated devices that enhance the quality of life for people with disabilities. The integration of technology into daily life has not only promoted inclusivity but also empowered people with disabilities to achieve greater independence.
What Is Assistive Technology?
From walkers, wheelchairs, and glasses to wheelchair vans, and swivel car seats, assistive technology includes both digital and physical products. It is a broad term encompassing any product, piece of equipment, or system used to enhance independence in daily life for people with disabilities.
Assistive Technology Examples
There are hundreds of different types of assistive technology, some simple and others more complex. Examples include:
- Pencil grips
- Large print books
- Screen readers
- Smart home devices
- GPS devices
- Doorbell cameras
- Wheelchairs
- Hearing aids
What Are the Three Major Categories of Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology can be broadly categorized by technology level—low-tech, mid-tech, or high-tech—and further classified by functional area, such as visual, auditory, or motor. For example, speaking is considered a motor skill. A low-tech assistive technology for speaking might be picture communication cards, while a high-tech option could be an augmentative and alternative communication device (AAC), which allows the user to form complete sentences and communicate more complex thoughts. Technological and functional categories of assistive technology are often combined when choosing the right devices for an individual.
Technology Level Categories:
- Low-Tech: Simple, non-electronic tools that are easy to use.
- Mid-Tech: Devices with some electronic components that are not highly sophisticated.
- High-Tech: Electronic devices and software that are often more complex.
Functional Area Categories:
- Visual: Tools designed to aid individuals with visual impairments.
- Auditory: Devices that assist those with hearing impairments.
- Motor: Equipment for people with mobility disabilities or motor impairments.
What Are Assistive Technologies for People with Disabilities?
While assistive technologies can be used by anyone, some are more specifically designed for people with disabilities. Examples include:
- Communication devices: Used for communication by those who are non-verbal or have limited speech.
- Braille signage: Used by those who are visually impaired or blind when navigating spaces.
- Cochlear implants: Used by those who are hard of hearing or deaf.
- Mobility devices: Braces, prosthetics, canes, crutches, and wheelchairs to aid people with mobility disabilities in movement.
Some assistive technologies, while intended for use by disabled people, can be used by anyone. This is often referred to as universal design, meaning that even when something is designed for disabled people, it can benefit others too. Examples include:
- Text-to-Speech Software: Can be used simply, like in audiobooks. More complex text-to-speech software allows visually impaired and blind individuals to use their phone or computer, for example.
- Closed Captioning: Originally for those who are hard of hearing or deaf, closed captions can also be used by those without disabilities in noisy environments or simply to ensure you don’t miss every detail of your favorite show.
- Wheelchair Ramps: Beneficial for wheelchair users, ramps can also be used by cyclists and parents with strollers.
- Automatic Doors: Useful for people who use wheelchairs, as well as people carrying multiple items without a free hand to open a door.
What Is Adaptive Technology?
Adaptive technology and assistive technology are terms that often overlap. Adaptive technology refers to modifications or customizations made to existing tools specifically to help people with disabilities. Assistive technology encompasses any device or system that aids individuals with disabilities in performing tasks. For example, a handicap van is considered both adaptive and assistive. It is adaptive because the van has been modified to include features like ramps or lifts, and it is assistive because these modifications enable individuals with mobility disabilities to use the vehicle for transportation.
The future of assistive and adaptive technology is promising, with advancements to foster greater inclusion and independence among people with disabilities. Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous vehicles, and wearable medical devices are just a few innovations making life easier and more accessible to people with disabilities.
Assistive technology enhances accessibility in multiple settings, from educational institutions to personal homes and vehicles. Contact your local BraunAbility dealer today to learn more about assistive technology in wheelchair accessible vehicles and mobility products.
