Assistive Technology Continued…

Obtaining Assistive Technology

Because many assistive technology devices are quite advanced in the service they provide, they can be expensive and difficult to obtain. That said, disabled children eligible for special education services have a legal right in the United States to obtain this type of technology to assist them with learning. This is mandated by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The intention of this law is to insure no child is left behind as a result of a disability. Under this law, it is the school's responsibility to evaluate a child's technology needs, acquire the technology, coordinate the use of the technology with other therapies, and to train the disabled, the family of the disabled, and the school staff in the most effective way to use the technological device. If your child requires Assistive Technology, be sure to check with the child's school and doctor first so that the best solution can be employed.

Purchasing an Assistive Technology Device

When the time comes to purchase an assistive technology device, there are many different considerations to take into account. Because of the high cost of the device and because training may be required, properly researching the different solutions available is imperative. There is no bigger letdown with assistive technology than the device failing and the individual not having the ability to use the device as needed. Things to consider before purchasing assistive technology are: the cost, durability, whether this is the right solution, and adaptability with other computer devices. By properly researching all the options available, a proper solution can be employed and a disabled person's life can be enhanced.

By Jamie Ward