Chapter 36
Assistive Technology

Definitions and Overview

  1. Assistive devices: alleviate impact
  2. Adaptive/alternative technology: substitutes/makes up for loss of function
  3. Augmentative devices: increase area of functioning

Technology for Medical Assistance

Replace or augment a vital body function

Respiratory technology assistance

Monitoring/surveillance

Nutrition assistance

Intravenous (IV) therapy

Augment/protect kidney function

Respiratory support for Lung or heart problems, neurological control of breathing and/or weakness of the muscles.

supplemental oxygen

continuous positive airway pressure

chest physiotherapy

nasal cannulae

Monitoring/surveillance devices

Pulse oximeters and Cardiorespiratory monitors

Nutritional (gastrointestinal) fluid assistance

Nasogastric tube

Gastrostomy tube (G tube)

IV fluid assistive devices

Catheter (central line)

peripherally inserted central catheter or subcutaneous infusion port

Universal Design for Learning/UDL

Technology for physical disabilities

Low-tech: ankle-foot orthoses, hand splints, spinal braces

Mid-tech: functional electrical stimulators, treadmills with support frames, dynamic braces

High-tech: personal computers

Technology for sensory impairments

Low-tech: magnification devices

Mid-tech: alerting systems, laser canes, taped books

High-tech: personal computers, cochlear implants

Technology for communication impairments (augmentative and alternative communication [AAC])

Low-tech: picture cards

Mid-tech: scanning communication device

High-tech: iPad

Technology for cognitive, attentional, and learning disabilities

Computer-based instruction

•Individualized treatment plan

•Software programs

•Distance learning

Assessment for Assistive Technology

Interdisciplinary team consists of specialists, child, family, teachers

Begin with low tech

Functional evaluation of the individual

Provide training in the use of the device

Pre-use training: demos, simulators

Monitoring for progress or modifications

Effects of Assistive Technology on
Family and Community

Increases self-worth, improves functioning

Decreases social isolation risk

Home care option depends on multiple factors

Arrange therapy before discharge

Include technology outcome in individualized family service plan or individualized education program

Funding Issues

Primary funding

School: must provide according to IIDEA of 2004 (PL 108-446), Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act (Tech Act) of 1988 (PL 100-407)

Coordinate payment for AAC devices

Advocacy information

Tech Act sites, AbleData, Council for Exceptional Children

Role of assistive technologies

Facilitate, improve day-to-day living

Replace/augment vital bodily function

Provide access at early age

Challenges

Financial/emotional stress

Training and arrangements best done pre-discharge

Future

Increased access; universal design influences

Improved technology