FREEDOM FROM LIMITATIONS ASSISTIVE TECH

We often ignore the bright side of technology. Like everything else, it has its perks, such as assistive technology, which helps people with disabilities easily perform day-to-day tasks.

- Sandesh Bhosle

Often referred to as AT, assistive technology was designed to rehabilitate disabled and elderly people who need assistance bathing, dressing, eating, or getting around.

During the initial phase of assistive technology, disabled and elderly people were worried about its operations, and most of them preferred to stay dependent on other humans. After neglecting it for the first few years, they started taking assistive technology seriously, and as a result, they regained independence and mobility.

With the help of AT, they regained more control of their everyday lives and began moving around the city by themselves. For example, since the arrival of electric wheelchairs, disabled and elderly individuals have started going out on their own, whether travelling to work, buying groceries or taking a flight/train to nearby cities.

Today, over one billion people need assistive technology to live productive lives, and the need for AT will continue to rise in the coming years. To stay on the same page with other people, disabled and elderly individuals need to have access to assistive technology at an affordable price to take part in education, work, and family and community life.

TYPES OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

Any equipment or item that helps maintain, improve, or increase the functional ability of people with disabilities is considered assistive technology.

• MOBILITY PRODUCTS

Assist with mobility devices - crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, ramps, and grab bars.

• SEEING / VISION PRODUCTS

Assist with low vision or blindness range devices - reading glasses and braille systems.

• HEARING PRODUCTS

Assist with hearing loss and communication devices - hearing aids and alarm signalers.

• COMMUNICATION PRODUCTS