Assistive technology helps people with disabilities and older adults participate in everyday life with greater independence. This lesson introduces its purpose, the activities it can support, and how it differs from adaptive technology.
Assistive technology (AT) includes devices, equipment, and systems that assist, adapt, or rehabilitate a person's ability to carry out tasks. AT may help someone complete an activity independently, make a task easier, or interact with the environment in a different way.
All flashcards
Assistive technology for cognition (ATC)
Technology used to support cognitive processes such as attention, memory, planning, and sequencing.
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)
Methods that supplement or replace speech or writing for people with communication difficulties.
Prosthesis
A device that replaces a missing body part or supplements a defective one.
Personal emergency response system (PERS)
A sensor-based alarm system that can alert a caregiver or response center to a safety concern.
WHO GATE 5P framework
An access framework covering People, Policy, Products, Provision, and Personnel.
Quiz questions
What is the technical difference between a prosthesis and an orthosis?Answer: A prosthesis replaces or supplements a body part; an orthosis aligns, braces, or corrects one.
How does bodyweight-supported treadmill training help someone practice walking after neurological injury?Answer: Equipment supports some body weight while a therapist helps provide walking practice.
What is the main function of a screen magnifier?Answer: It enlarges text and graphics displayed on a computer screen.
How can a personal emergency response system support independent living?Answer: It can use tailored sensors to send alerts about risks to a caregiver or response center.
Which set correctly names the five components of the WHO GATE framework?Answer: People, Policy, Products, Provision, and Personnel.