Assistive technology includes a wide range of products that aid a disabled person. Also known as adaptive technology, the phrase includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative equipment and devices. The phrase assistive technology also broadly encompasses the process to selecting those devices.
Assistive technology allows a disabled person to perform tasks that they previously could not, or helps them complete the task easier and quicker.
Many technological advancements can’t be used by some people. Assistive technology devices help people with a range of disabilities handle a variety of issues.
For example, a blind person can’t use a typical computer and word processing software. An assistive technology product allows a seeing impaired person to use word processing software by using voice commands.
The invention of the telephone changed the way people communicate, but the traditional telephone as is leaves out hearing impaired persons unless assistive technology is used to allow deaf people to read what the person on the other end is saying using a device.
Persons suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome or someone just dealing with sore wrists benefit from using a keyboard designed ergonomically that lessens the strain placed on wrists while typing.
Persons with learning difficulties also can benefit from assistive technology. Diagnostic software diagnosis some learning disabilities.
Some disabilities are temporary and assistive devices are needed only for a short time period. A broken leg might require the use of crutches or even a wheelchair to get around.
At the same time, others might use those devices permanently, a person without use of their legs might have a wheelchair designed to make them mobile.
Assistive technology used by a family member often requires the rest of the family to adapt and learn to how the device works so they can help the disabled person.
A wide variety of assistive technology exists today allowing many people to function in society better and faster.