Assistive Technology Services
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology consists of a variety of devices, strategies, and services used to maintain or improve an individual’s ability to accomplish tasks. It is an evaluative process that identifies relevant skills, strategies, and appropriate adaptive equipment, whether available commercially, modified from its original purpose, or custom-made.
SVRI’s assistive technology staff understand functional limitations experienced by people with disabilities as well as how to prevent and reduce injuries. Assistive technology services can include evaluation, design, customization, modification, maintenance, repair, training, technical assistance, and identification of funding options.
Assistive Technology Services Manager
Paul Schwartz, MSIE, ATP, RET, CPE
715-232-2378
schwartzpa@uwstout.edu
Assistive Technology Specialty Areas at SVRI:
Comprehensive computer assessments and full implementation of recommended solutions are available to enable an individual with a disability to access state-of-the-art computer technology. The goal of the assessment and implementation services is to maximize performance and prevent the onset of a secondary injury or disability. Alternate input methods can include voice recognition, alternative keyboards, cursor control devices, and adaptive switches. Output options can include voice synthesis, customized monitor screens, and Braille.
Assistance with the selection, fitting, and modification of mobility equipment is provided to maximize health and function for the consumer. Seating, positioning, propulsion, durability, maintenance, utility, and related issues are addressed in close collaboration with the consumer and with other interested parties including family, payee, and vendor.
Ergonomic and alternative keyboards, mice and other cursor control devices, workstation layout, phone systems, office lighting, seating, and work methods are all considered when conducting an office ergonomics assessment. Services include one-on-one ergonomics consultation and office-wide recommendations. Assessment, purchasing, installation and training on computers and accommodations are services provided.
Sensory (Hearing & Vision) Technology
Complete assessments and full implementation of the recommended assistive technology solutions for people who have a hearing or vision loss. SVRI can identify and recommend assistive technology that can be used in the workplace, in the classroom, and at home or in the community. Examples of technology covered includes assistive listening devices, signaling devices, low vision equipment and computer software solutions.
Although our AT services often recommend off-the-shelf assistive technology products, SVRI offers a full fabrication shop for custom products as needed. Optimizing the workstation or seating system for a consumer is often only possible when we go beyond what is available in the catalogs, and modify or design equipment specifically for the consumer.
Modifications to the work environment, workstation, position description, and/or work procedures can increase efficiency, reduce injuries, and allow a worker with a disability to meet the demands of a job. Certified Ergonomists and Certified Assistive Technology Practitioners recommend and implement worksite modifications and accommodations.
Assessment and implementation services are provided to allow a person with a disability to use a vehicle as a driver or passenger. Emphasis is placed on individual needs and safety. Driver assessments and training can also be arranged.
Assistance is available to identify and accommodate barriers faced in the home, at work, and in the community. Structural changes are recommended for the home or work environment. Environmental control systems, adaptive devices, and other accommodations are recommended to maximize the individual's ability to live and work independently.
The Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC)
Wisconsin has a new online resource for Assistive Technology (AT) information. The AT Resource Center can be found at www.wiatrc.org
and is brought to you by the Stout Vocational Rehabilitation Institute
in partnership with the Department of Health and Family Resources,
Pathways to Independence, and Wistech.
Locating up to
date information on AT can often be challenging and many individuals do
not know where to begin their search. The AT Resource Center website
provides information about disabilities, the types of AT that someone
with that disability may use, and the vendors or manufacturers that
sell the devices. This site is easy for consumers, family members and
service providers to navigate. Additional information at www.wiatrc.org
includes “tip sheets” and links to community resources such as Aging
and Disability Resource Centers and funding resources. Many individuals
are not aware of AT and how it can maximize independence within the
home, the school, a workplace or the community. This is their chance to
learn more.
SVRI assistive technologists are all certified Assistive Technology Practitioners (ATPs) and some staff members are also certified Rehabilitation Engineering Technicians (RET). AT staff regularly participate in continuing education activities to update their knowledge of the latest technology and frequently present on technology at conferences such as Assistive Technology Across the Lifespan and RESNA.
Contact the assistive technology services manager, Paul Schwartz, for more information on services offered and how to make a referral.
Paul Schwartz, MSIE, ATP, RET, CPE
Assistive Technology Services Manager
Stout Vocational Rehabilitation Institute
University of Wisconsin-Stout
221 10th Ave. E., Room 121
715-232-2378 (voice)
715-232-5008 (fax)
schwartzpa@uwstout.edu