Written by Vanessa Sheppard
When someone sustains an injury, faces mobility challenges, or experiences the inevitable aging process (with or without a disability), navigating the world of adaptive and assistive technology can feel overwhelming. What devices exist that can help? What device is the best fit? What features are necessary? How do you ensure the right support for long-term success? That’s where Adaptive Technologies comes in.
ATech plays a crucial role in diagnosing an individual’s needs and identifying the best solutions. Whether someone is recovering from an injury, adapting to a disability, or seeking tools to enhance independence, our team evaluates the specific challenges they face. ATech guides individuals through the process of determining what technology or equipment will work best for them—whether it’s a temporary aid for rehabilitation or a long-term solution for daily living—and connecting them to funding.
ATech’s strength lies in combining clinical expertise with insights from individuals who have lived experiences with disabilities. Members such as Blake Perkins and Steve Polakowski, both of whom live with spinal cord injuries, provide invaluable perspectives that ensure adaptive solutions address real-world challenges. Their firsthand knowledge allows them to identify practical concerns that may be overlooked, offer creative workarounds, and provide reassurance to individuals who may feel overwhelmed by new technology. By sharing their own experiences, Blake and Steve help individuals feel understood and empowered, fostering trust and connection throughout the process.
For instance, someone living with quadriplegia may rely on a quad stick to control a computer or mobile device. Steve, who has direct experience using this technology, can provide guidance not only in selecting the appropriate device but also in setting it up and mastering its use. His insights into positioning, calibration, and everyday functionality can help ensure that the individual feels confident and comfortable integrating the quad stick into their routine. This combination of technical knowledge and lived experience is key to achieving long-term success with adaptive tools.
Research from the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR) supports these interventions, demonstrating that customized assistive technology significantly improves functional independence in individuals with upper limb impairments. Similarly, studies published in the Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development have shown that combining proper device selection with personalized training greatly enhances long-term success and user satisfaction.
Beyond just suggesting solutions, ATech ensures individuals receive the right training and resources to obtain and use their devices effectively. The team believes that technology is only as powerful as the knowledge behind it—so they don’t just provide tools; they empower individuals to integrate them seamlessly into their daily lives.
Ultimately, ATech simplifies the process of finding and implementing the right assistive technology, removing barriers and ensuring that every person has access to the support they need. Their mission is to help individuals regain independence, improve functionality, and navigate their world with confidence.