ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY GUIDE FOR PARENTS

The Community Resource Center has purchased a copy of the Family Guide to Assistive Technology, published by the Federation for Children with Special Needs. This guide defines assistive technology and serves as an advocacy guide for parents. It talks about different types of technology, how to determine what might help and how to find funding. It also gives lots of case examples and lists specific resources. Social workers can borrow this book to read or show to families who can purchase it for $10 from the Federation.

From the book: "Assistive technology devices are mechanical aids which substitute for or enhance the function of some physical or mental ability. Assistive technology can be anything homemade, purchased off the shelf, modified, or commercially available which is used to help an individual perform some task of daily living…(it) encompasses a broad range of devices from "low tech" (e.g., pencil grips, splints, paper stabilizers) to "high tech" (e.g., computers, voice synthesizers, Braille readers)…from adapted spoons to wheelchairs and computer systems for environmental control."


10/98