Assistive Technology Changing Lives

Research by the Assistive Technology Outreach Measure System ( ATOMS ) at the University of Wisconsin of Milwaukee sought to determine the factors surrounding the abandonment or the discontinuing use of assistive technology amongst consumers and their family members. A consumer survey revealed that devices were abandoned for reasons that included discomfort with AT, length of set-up time, weight of devices too hard to manage, etc. The conclusion of the survey was that one of the leading factors contributing to the discontinuance of assistive technology devices were inappropriate device selections.

Additional studies have shown that individuals with disabilities who rely on a medical service delivery model of assistive technology acquisition, where the role of the consumer is passive and the rehabilitation professional is the central decision-maker, are more likely to discontinue the use of the assistive technology because they are dissatisfied. With a consumer driven model, in which the consumer is involved in all aspects of the assistive technology purchase decision making process, abandonment rates are significantly lower.

One important factor that contributes to technology abandonment is not being allowed any degree of experimentation with the assistive technology before it is acquired. Individuals with disabilities are rarely given the opportunity to try out assistive technology devices before purchasing them. Thereby forced to rely on a salesperson and/or rehabilitation professional to make a judgment on their behalf and select the device for them.

Videos

These videos demonstrate solutions that empower people with disabilities to perform their daily functions. Solutions for:

Computer access

Communication device allow a person to interact with a computer.

The Tracker is a device that transmits signals from a top of the computer monitor and tracks a reflected dot which can be on a person’s forehead or eye glass. This gives a person an alternative method to control the mouse by simple moving their head or another isolated body part.

Environmental controls

An electric door opener allow a person to open and close a door by pressing a remote control.

A electric lock allows a person to unlock and lock the door.

Communication device allows a person control over their environment such as operating the television.

Mobility

A van equipped with a power ramp allows to get around in the community.

An remote control lifting system allows a person to independently transfer themselves from one place to another,

Daily living aides

A store brought automatic soap dispenser makes it easier for a person to wash their hands by simple placing their hand(s) underneath the dispenser.