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Assistive Technology

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What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology is any device that helps a person with a disability complete an everyday task. If you break your leg, a remote control for the TV can be assistive technology. If someone has poor eyesight, a pair of glasses or a magnifier is assistive technology. Although assistive technology includes these kinds of common devices, there are many specialized devices as well. For instance, there are typing telephones for people who are deaf and motorized wheelchairs for people who cannot walk.

Examples of different types of assistive technology include:

Access and Environmental Controls:
Switches, special keyboards or mice, and remote controls that allow a person with a physical or visual disability to control things in his or her environment. This also includes things that help people get around the community, like ramps, automatic door openers, and Braille signs.
Assistive Listening (for a person who is either deaf or has hearing loss): Hearing aids Amplifiers Captions on TV Typing telephones
Augmentative/Alternative communication: Picture boards Battery-operated communication devices Communication software Computers These devices allow a student who cannot speak, or whose speech is not understood by others, to communicate.
Computer-Based Instruction: Software to help people with learning difficulties in reading, writing, math and other subject areas.
Aids to Daily Living: Special tools for daily activities, like brushing teeth or dressing, and specially designed toilet seats for students who need help with self-care.
Mobility: Wheelchairs Walkers Adapted bicycles These devices allow a student with a physical or visual disability to move safely through the community.
Visual Aids:Large-print books, books on tape, magnifiers, talking computer software, and Braillers that give a person who is blind or has low vision access to information
Positioning: Adjustable chairs, tables, standers, wedges and straps that help a person with a physical disability remain in a good position without becoming tired.

Director:	Kate Franklin, Ph.D.
Email:	kathleen_franklin@nymc.edu
Phone:	914.594.4852
Staff:	Program Staff