MSWA Bulletin Magazine Spring 2021

TYPES OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Assistive technology can range in types and categories and can be disability-specific or mainstream. In recent years,
there has also been more of a shift into making mainstream products such as tablets and computers more accessible
to enable access for a person with a disability.
The following are some categories and examples of assistive devices. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list
and development in assistive devices are constantly improving:
Category
Mobility aids
Transfer equipment
Seating and positioning
Temperature control
Computer technology
Physical modifications
Adaptive devices for
daily living
Recreation
Communication
Examples
Wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, crutches, prosthetic devices, orthotic devices,
guide dogs or assistance animals
Hoists, transfer benches, vehicle transfer aids
Recliners, adapted seating, cushions
Air conditioners, cooling devices such as pillow and mattress protectors, cooling vests
Computer software and hardware such as screen readers, screen enlargement apps
and software, in-built accessibility programs in mainstream devices
Modification for the built environment of the home or workplace including
installation of grab rails, ramps, increasing doorways, circulation spaces. This can
also include modifications of vehicles to enable safe transfers or driving techniques.
Adaptive switches and utensils, specialised handles and grips, dressing aids,
personal alarms, adapted personal hygiene aids
Devices that enable participation in recreational and sporting activities include
adaptive controls for video games, cuffs for grasping paddles or racquets etc.
Devices that enable communication for people with speech and/or hearing difficulties.
Examples include communication boards, text to voice software and specialised apps.
MATCHING YOU TO THE RIGHT ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Matching the person to the right AT for the right
task can be a complex process that involves careful
consideration of the person and their family members,
the environment, the technology and the task involved.
It involves technical knowledge of equipment and its
interactions with the person and environment and a
consultation process with the individual to come up with
a product that would fit best to the individual’s needs.
Before getting any equipment, it might be useful to
consider these questions:
/ What is my goal task to complete?
/ What barriers are there that prevent me from
achieving this goal?
/ Who can assist me with selecting the right AT?
/ Where can I find what AT is available?
/ How will I determine which brand and features are
the best for my needs?
/ How will the AT be paid for?
/ Can I trial the equipment?
/ What kind of training do I need to use the AT?
/ Who should I contact if I have follow up questions or if
the equipment breaks down?
WHERE TO SEEK HELP
The MSWA Allied Health team comprises Occupational
Therapists, Physiotherapists, Speech Pathologists and
Nurses who can assist with assessing your needs and
goals and sourcing the right fit for you in terms of your
assistive technology needs.
Your Support Coordinator or MSWA Client Liaison
Coordinator can also assist with the funding from your
NDIS plan if appropriate.
You can also find out more information from Disability
Gateway – a government portal for people with
disabilities to source and connect with information and
services that is relevant to their needs. It has a specific
Assistive Technology page that can link you to more
information and services depending on your needs and
criteria: disabilitygateway.gov.au/aids-equipment
CRYSTAL CHAN
MSWA OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY MANAGER
21