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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
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Assistive Technology and Resources in Pennsylvania “PIAT 101”
January 14, 2014 Presenter: Sandra McNally Assistant Director, PIAT
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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).
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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
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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
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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
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State AT Act Programs (How can PIAT help?)
Access to AT Acquisition of AT Public Awareness Information & Assistance Training and Technical Assistance
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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)
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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
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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) ( )
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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:
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Thank you for your time and attention!
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