1. A program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University
"For people without disabilities, technology makes things easier.
For people with disabilities, technology makes things possible.”
A program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University

2. Assistive Technology and Resources in Pennsylvania “PIAT 101”
January 14, 2014
Presenter: Sandra McNally
Assistant Director, PIAT

3. Assistive Technology Device
“any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capacities of individuals with disabilities.”
From the Assistive Technology Act (AT Act) of 1998, as amended. Also from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

4. Low, Mid and High Tech Assistive Technology Devices
Low Tech: Inexpensive, easy to learn, readily available, can be “off-the-shelf”, easier to make/maintain/replace
Mid-Tech: May cost more, require some training, have special design, may need power source or other support
High-Tech: Higher cost, need specific training to learn, may require on-going support, often customized

5. The Scope of Assistive Technology
Communication
Seating and Positioning
Power Mobility
Manual Mobility
Mobility Aids
Assistive Listening
Vehicle Modification
Leisure/Recreation/Play
Worksite Modification
Home Modification
Learning Aids
Environmental Controls
Vision Aids
Self Care/Activities of Daily Living

7. Assistive Technology Services
Any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.
Evaluation
Acquisition
Adapting/Modification
Coordination of All Therapies - TR, OT, PT, SLP
Training: Consumer – Family – Professionals
Maintenance, Repair & Replacement

8. State AT Act Programs (How can PIAT help?)
Access to AT
Acquisition of AT
Public Awareness
Information & Assistance
Training and Technical Assistance

9. PIAT is a Statewide Program
8 Assistive Technology Resource Centers (ATRCs) serve different groups of counties. This helps us serve people locally.
Listing can be found at:
ATRCs perform all PIAT activities.

10. ACCESS to AT (How do I know what I need?)
Learn about different devices and how they can help you – DEVICE DEMONSTRATIONS
To help with your decision: try before you buy – DEVICE LOANS

11. Device Demonstrations
Consumer responsive – primary audience
“Guided Discovery” of a device or group of devices
Learn about how device(s) can help at home, work, school or community
General overview of a device to help consumers make informed decisions about AT
No cost to consumers for demonstrations

12. Device Loans
Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Lending Library is a FREE program available to all Older Pennsylvanians and Pennsylvanians with disabilities, regardless of age, disability, income, place of residence, or service system, who would like to try assistive technology devices prior to obtaining them.

13. How to use Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Lending Library
Obtain a loan application and review assistive technology device inventory at
Determine what device(s) you want to borrow
Fill out application completely, with signatures
Send application to your local Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC)

14. ACQUISITION (How do I get what I need?)
Alternative Financing Programs (AFP): Support for states to establish, enhance, or maintain financial loan programs for individuals with disabilities & families to purchase needed assistive technology devices and services
Other sources: waivers, insurance, service organizations

15. Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF)
PATF is a non-profit organization that provides low-interest loans and mini-grants/mini-loans to older adults and people with disabilities to buy needed assistive technology devices and services.
(voice/TTY)
( )

16. ACQUISITION How do I get what I need?
Reused Equipment
Classified Listings: Used (sometimes new!) devices for sale (sometimes free!) directly from and to individuals with disabilities & their families

17. Pennsylvania Telecommunication Device Distribution Program (TDDP)
Provides free telecommunication devices to Pennsylvanians who have disabilities that make it difficult to use a standard telephone
Individuals applying to TDDP must have an authorized professional certify the disability
Must be 6 years of age or older
Individual gross income of 200% of Federal Poverty level or less
Must have telephone service (landline) and the ability to learn to use the equipment they receive

18. iCanConnect The National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program
In PA, called iCanConnectPA
Goal is to technology into the hands of Americans with combined hearing and vision loss so they can connect with family, friends and community. For those who qualify, technology equipment used for distance communication is provided FREE. Installation, training and technical support are also available at NO CHARGE.

19. iCanConnectPA Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible the individual must:
Have combined hearing AND vision loss verified by a doctor or professional service provider
Be able to be trained to use adaptive technology that makes it possible to use telephone, computer or other telecommunication equipment
Meet the program’s income guidelines

20. Other AT Act Program Activities
Public Awareness: General info presentations, brochures, posters, exhibits and other communication and education outreach
Information & Assistance: Phone and requests for help about different AT devices & services
Training & Technical Assistance: Helping professionals and agencies increase their knowledge and skills to better provide AT services

21. Pennsylvania’s Initiative on Assistive Technology 1755 N. 13th St.
FOR INFORMATION contact:
Pennsylvania’s Initiative on
Assistive Technology
1755 N. 13th St.
Student Center Rm. 411S
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Tel: (voice)
(TTY)
Fax:
Web:

22. Thank you for your time and attention!