Introduction to Assistive Technology

In occupational therapy, technology is frequently used as a tool to enable human performance. Even an OT who will not specialize in technology assessment and training (more on that later) will use some type of technology in daily practice. Technology is an ever-present part of contemporary life, and therefore opens up endless possibilities in terms of modifications we can make to environments, tools, and processes.

To understand the many ways assistive technologies (AT) contribute to OT practice, we need to first define AT, and look at the various forms it takes. The word "technology" comes from the Greek word "technikos" which means technical knowledge of a mechanical or scientific subject. The term broadly encompasses methods, tools or processes for solving a problem. Therefore, a technology can be:

• a unique approach that you come up with for completing a task
• a gadget that you construct or buy that makes a task easier
• a new way of thinking about a problem

Assistive technologies are what we call those technologies that are used by people with disabilities as ways to enhance function. Cook & Hussey (2002) describe AT as "a broad range of devices, services, strategies and practices that are devised to reduce problems faced by people with disabilities" (p. 5). AT is much more than high tech devices with beeping sounds and flashing lights.

AT is a powerful enabler - which highlights its usefulness to occupational therapy, since our core goal is to enable occupation. As you know, technologies such as microwave ovens, computers, cell phones and even ramps can make life faster, easier and safer for all of us. These things can make life better for people with disabilities as well - although some people will need special processes or devices to make them work. What's important, though, is the effect that AT can have on disability. Going back to the WHO definitions, AT can help people compensate for impairments, which for many may eliminate or lessen any disability they might otherwise experience. For many people with disabilities, AT doesn't just make participation in chosen occupations easier or faster - it makes them possible!

To see some evidence on the impact AT has on functional performance of elderly persons, check out the article "Effects of assistive technology on functional decline in people aging with a disability" (Wilson, Mitchell, Kemp, Adkins & Mann, 2009) at this link (at least read the abstract!): http://journals1.scholarsportal.info/details/10400435/v21i0004/208_eoatofipawad.xml

To better understand how assistive technology might be used for children and youth, visit the Ontario Teachers Federation, "Teachers' Gateway to Special Education" http://www.teachspeced.ca/assistive-technology

Explore the areas of the website that refer to teaching strategies, key practices and accessing funding for students.  Also read the article at http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/literacynumeracy/inspire/research/WW_TechnologyTools.pdf.