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Overview
Assistive Technology (AT) is defined as any item, piece of equipment, or product system that increases, maintains or improves functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. AT is a critical resource for persons with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment. AT can assist in bridging the gap between a person's physical abilities and the job requirements. Despite the promise of AT, many people with significant physical disabilities and their service providers underutilize such supports.
Finding the appropriate AT interventions for person with physical disabilities may require professional assistance in the selection of a device or software and in training. A DVR Counselor may be helpful in identifying Assistive Technology professionals.
Outreach Materials:
- Assistive Technology Software and Hardware Solutions by Phil Goodman: Powerpoint | PDF
- Assistive Technology Workplace Solutions: Powerpoint | PDF
- T-TAP Q and A on Assistive Technology as a Workplace Support (PDF)
- Job Accommodation Network's Assistive Technology Fact Sheet: WORD | PDF
Resources:
- WisTech is Wisconsin's assistive technology program funded under the AT Act of 1998. WisTech provides information on selecting, funding, installing and using assistive technology. There are 8 Independent Living Centers throughout the state that serve as regional WisTech centers, providing AT device loans and demonstrations, training and technical assistance, and loans for assistive technology purchases. For a list of the 8 WisTech Independent Living Centers.
- The WisLoan program offers loans for assistive technology. The loans help people buy equipment such as hearing aids, modified vehicles, wheelchairs and ramps. For more information on WisLoan, contact a regional Independent living center.
- The Wisconsin Assistive Technology Resource Center (WIATRC) website is a collaborative effort by WisTech, DHS, and UW-Stout. Lots of information on equipment, vendors, and other resources.
- Wisconsin Telework Loan Program: a statewide, alternative loan program that allows Wisconsin residents with disabilities to purchase computers and other equipment needed to work from home or from other remote sites away from the office, such as work on the road or at a telework center.
- Loan funds can be used to purchase equipment, training to use equipment, extended warranties, and
cost of maintenance and repairs. This may include, but is not limited to:
- Computers, printers and software.
- Scanners, fax and office machines.
- Tools and equipment.
- Telecommunication devices.
- Office furniture.
- Home modifications to create accessible.
- Home office.
- Assistive technology that enables an individual with a disability to work at home.
- For more information on the Wisconsin Telework Loan Program, contact a regional Independent Living Center.
- Lifeline and Link-Up: Two Wisconsin Universal Service Fund programs that make essential telecommunications more affordable for low-income households. All telephone companies that provide local residential service in Wisconsin are required to offer these two programs to their residential customers. Lifeline reduces monthly telephone charges and Link-Up waives telephone connection charges for income eligible households. Should you have any questions regarding Lifeline and Link-Up, please contact me at 608-266-3843 or anita.sprenger@psc.state.wi.us.
- Wisconsin Lion's District: Wisconsin Lion's District are a potential resource option for the hearing aid program, and have other programs which are operated under the Lion's Foundation. Go to their homepage and click on Lions Foundation to get a listing of the different community projects they are involved with.
- RESNA: Alternative Financing Technical Assistance Project: The Alternative Financing Technical Assistance Project is a sponsored project of RESNA, the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America. This includes Alternative Financing Programs funded under Title III of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 (P.L. 105-394) and Access to Telework Loan programs funded under the New Freedom Initiative.
- The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) resource page for AT in the Workplace.
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