Definition

• The Technology Related Assistance for Individuals With Disabilities Act Amendments of 1994 (known simply as the Tech Act) defines an assistive technology device as "any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities." It also describes services that assist a disabled person to use an assistive technology device.
  
  

AT Devices

• AT devices aim to improve physical or mental functions and prevent the worsening of a condition by strengthening physical or mental weaknesses. Examples of AT devices include voice-activated computers, tools for grasping objects easily, speaker phones, devices that help operate light switches, hearing aids, wheelchair cars, large-print books, flashing light alarms and prosthetic body parts.
  
  

AT Services

• Assistive technology services help people with disabilities, their family member and authorized representatives to select, acquire or use AT devices. AT services are part of personalized therapies, whereby your needs are evaluated by health experts. Based on such assessments, customized services are designed and implemented as part of treatment or therapy. AT services include product demonstrations and evaluations, training on how to use devices, equipment purchasing or leasing, and coordinated therapies or interventions
  
  

Significance

• The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 reaffirms AT devices and services as important tools for individuals with disabilities. The laws put in place AT education and advocacy resources throughout the United States. States are required to increase access to AT devices through lending libraries, recycling programs and low-interest loans. The act also require a range of publicly supported agencies to help pay for recipients' access to AT.
  
  

Trends

• The advancements of existing assistive technology products have enabled more personalized solutions for disabled persons. As of 2009, various mobility aids and public transport systems have been improved and developed for enhanced accessibility. Wheelchairs and car wheelchairs are enhanced with GPS systems that include detailed information on available facilities, travel connections and routes to any location.
  
  Another AT advancement is the simulation and virtualization of movement and environment, which is designed for safe mobility in a barrier-free environment. This AT system includes interactive and motion-activated products that are equipped with sensors. The INDIGO eyeglass system, for instance, allows patients with Parkinson's disease to move normally, stand straight and speak properly. Research on rehabilitation robots, telemedicine and implantable health devices is underway to replace traditional health monitoring devices.