Assistive technology can be as simple as a large handled tool, a bath bench or as complex as a voice recognition computer. This equipment and related modifications and adaptations help people to be as independent as possible.

We see both children and adults. People who have physical impairments that limit their ability to work or perform daily activities use our services. They may be a worker with a hand injury who needs a different computer mouse or chair. They might be in a wheelchair and need a whole setup created just for them. We also see people who may have vision or hearing loss or problems with self-care. They could be people who need special software or devices for communication or education.

The Assistive Technology Project provides:

Information

We have a list of websites you can check, as well as catalogs and resource books.

Referral

We can refer you to people and agencies that can help you. If you need physical or occupational therapy we also provide those services through CdA Hand Therapy & Healing Center.

Demonstration

We can demonstrate equipment you want to see. We also have an inventory list of things that are available at our location.

Loaning Library

You may need to try some items before purchasing so we have a short term loan program. If we do not have the item, we can often get the item through United Cerebral Palsy out of Boise. We also have video tapes you can check out.

Evaluation

Once we know more about your needs we can set up an evaluation with one of our Assistive Technology Practitioners to help you find out what will work for you and then we will work with you to develop a plan.

There is no charge to visit our location for a brief tour. When you come to see us, please ask about our complementary handouts that are available as a service to you. If someone needs to work on their own (without staff) to practice a skill we will be happy to schedule a time that works for you. There will be a charge for evaluation and training that requires a staff person. We accept a variety of insurances including Medicare and Medicaid. We also accept private pay. When you complete the intake information we can help you to determine the best payment options for you. The Assistive Technology Project does not purchase assistive equipment for people. However, once we determin your needs, we can direct you to the proper resources where you can purchase the necessary equipment. When an evaluation is required for the purchase of assistive equipment we will be happy to send the evaluation in for you. We will also complete any required certificates of medical necessity as a service to you.

Here are some examples of how people have benefited from the Assistive Technology Project so far.

We assisted a hearing impaired woman to find a device to alert her when the phone rang or someone pushed the doorbell.

In working with a woman suffering from arthritis we showed her a package and container opener, large handled kitchen utensils and loop scissors. These specialized items were easier for her to grip and using them will help protect her joints.

We evaluated an injured worker to determine the best seating position for her. We also determined what kind of specialized equipment she would need to use the computer. As a result of her injury, she had limited hand use so we trained her in the use of a one-handed keyboard.

In a similar situation we are assisting a woman with cerbral palsy who has only one functional hand to learn how to type one handed so she can enter the work force.

We helped a high school student who had been in a car accident to explore different types of computers.

A man with progressive blindness used our service to find a computer program that would talk to him. This program would allow him to use e-mail and to access online banking..

We provided a wheelchair that can go over sand to a church social group. As a result, some people who had never been able to go to the beach before were able to enjoy a day at the beach.

We loaned a video to a service provider so he could learn how to use a piece of equipment and how to make homes accessible.

We assisted a speech-impaired person to determine what kind of communication devices would be helpful for him. We then loaned him several items that he could review with his speech therapist.

When you are ready to get started, we will gather some intake information. If you have questions that we cannot answer at that time, one of our therapists will review your request and get an answer for you. Our staff may call you to get additional information in order to properly research your request. We will then contact you to schedule the appropriate services.