ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY CENTER

The Assistive Technology (AT) Center is a resource to the communities of Northern Arizona. Located on the Northern Arizona University campus, the Center is a program of the Institute for Human Development (IHD) and supports the mission of IHD through the provision of direct services, interdisciplinary training, technical assistance, and information dissemination related to the field of AT. The Center is funded through a variety of resources including grants, private foundations, contracts, and fee for service activities.

WHAT IS ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY?
Assistive Technology (AT) is any piece of equipment or device that may be used by a person with a disability to perform specific tasks and improve functional capabilities. Properly selected assistive technology products enable individuals with disabilities to become more independent and productive.

Assistive Technology can include:

Cognitive aids

• Eating devices

• Adaptive toys

• Communication aids

• Alternate computer access

• Aids to assist with walking, dressing and other activities of daily living

• Visual aids

• Aids to augment hearing

This technology may range from very low-cost, low-tech adaptations (such as a battery interrupter and switch to make a toy accessible) to high-tech very expensive devices (such as a powered wheelchair & environmental controller operated by tongue-touch).

People with disabilities may use assistive technology to:

• Participate in everyday activities

• Play and enjoy recreational activities

• Become mobile

• Communicate

• Hear better

• See Better

• Learn easier

• Use a computer

• Become more independent at meal time