What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
AT can be high-tech or low-tech, expensive or not, medical or non-medical in nature. Simply put, AT is a tool that can assist people with disabilities to improve functional capacities and quality of life. AT can come into play in various contexts including special education, vocational rehabilitation, employment, health coverage, and access to businesses and government services.
AT is broadly defined by federal law. "Assistive technology" means technology designed to be utilized in an assistive technology device or assistive technology service. An assistive technology device means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. An assistive technology service means any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. An AT service includes evaluation of the AT needs of an individual; purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of AT devices; selection, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing AT devices; coordination and use of necessary therapies, interventions or services with AT devices such as services associated with education and rehabilitation plans; training or technical assistance for the individual and if appropriate, family members, guardians, advocates, professionals, employers, or others who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of individuals with disabilities.
