Have you ever wanted to try assistive technology for your child but not known where to start? In downtown Phoenix, there is an organization called Arizona Technology Access Program (AzTAP), which allows you to borrow their equipment to see if it would be a great fit for you and your family.
What is Assistive Technology?
“Assistive Technology (AT) includes thousands of products that enable persons with disabilities to be more productive and independent in daily activities. Assistive technology products range from simple to complex and can be used at home, work, school and in the community to reduce barriers and increase personal abilities.
At AzTAP, we assist persons with disabilities of all types and ages as well as family members, service providers, employers and the general public to become better educated about the value and use of assistive technology. Let AzTAP help you choose the right technology!” per https://aztap.org/.
Who can benefit from Assistive Technology (AT)?
Anyone with low vision, limited movement of upper extremities, low mobility, difficulty with hearing and more. Diagnoses that may benefit from AT would include Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, general developmental delay, etc!
AzTAP lends assistive technology to service providers, family members or persons with disabilities for a two-week period in which they can trial the technology to see if it is a good fit for them. The devices can be picked up from the AzTAP office or returned by shipment at no cost to the person borrowing. This allows families to trial equipment before purchasing with the opportunity to consult with technology specialists in the hope of finding AT that is most beneficial to them.
Assistive technology is a useful tool that can provide support in home, school and community settings. It can enable those with disabilities to increase their participation in everyday life skills without added support thus playing a substantial role in increasing independence. Please visit https://aztap.org/ for more information regarding what assistive technology would be most useful for yourself or family members.
