Adaptive Equipment and Assistive Technology

A photo of a person in a dark gray sweater. The person is wearing a Roger Mic around their neck. The photo is zoomed into the Mic, therefore only the upper half of the person’s torso is pictured. 

Adaptive Equipment and Assistive Technology

In a world full of differences we must find ways to adapt components of our everyday lifestyle to ensure the values of equity, accessibility and inclusion. Assistive technology and adaptive equipment is commonly used to support individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. These technologies increase independence and ensure access, all while promoting equity. I have identified three forms of adaptive/assistive technology that are used within our communities. I will share a little information about each form and briefly discuss the role it plays in upholding the values of equity, accessibility and inclusion. 

1. Walkers, Canes, and or Crutches

 Walkers, canes, and crutches are an important piece of adaptive equipment that supports individuals with disabilities impacting their mobility. When an individual uses a walker, a cane, or crutches in their everyday life they are able to transition between tasks/activities independently and with greater efficacy. Walkers, canes, and crutches provide the people who use them with access to the community. In addition these mobility aids allow people to improve their range of motion and strength with the support of an assistive device.

2. Adaptive Sound Amplification Devices (Roger Mic)

Adaptive devices that are used to amplify or stream sound directly into a pair of hearing aids or cochlear implants play a crucial role in providing individuals with access to auditory language and sound. An example of an Adaptive Microphone is the Roger Mic. This can be worn around a speaker's neck or they can also be placed on a table in a group setting. Roger Mics stream the sound directly into a hearing aid or cochlear implant through Bluetooth connection. Roger Mics substantially increase independence and access for those who use them. In an interview, a Roger Mic user, Jack Kyman stated, “It definitely helps me participate in social settings… I used to shy away from them, because I was always the guy that’s, you know, “what? I didn’t hear you. Could you speak up?”...and consequently, to avoid being that guy, you just kind of drift back.” (“The Life Changing Benefits…”) Roger Mics are a powerful tool for individuals that are hard of hearing, deaf with cochlear implants, or have an intellectual or developmental disability.

3. Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) Device 

AAC devices can range from small picture cards to high tech ipads or computers with verbal output. These devices allow non verbal individuals or individuals who struggle to communicate orally to express their opinions and feelings. In a world that is very dependent on verbal communication, individuals who are non verbal or who struggle to verbally communicate will often be left behind. Being left out of a social group or an activity because the student does not communicate in a “traditional” way is not fair nor equitable. AAC devices allow students with disabilities to achieve things that would otherwise be impossible. Without an alternative form of communication these students are left voiceless and they are more apt to be socially isolated. AAC devices give students a voice who would otherwise not have one. Overall, they promote an extreme amount of independence along with ensuring access and equity. 

In conclusion, adaptive equipment and assistive technology helps to make our communities more equitable, accessible and inclusive for individuals with disabilities. Without this advanced technology and equipment, these individuals would be both left behind and left out. It is because of the development of adaptive equipment and assistive technology that we are able to meet the needs of so many people worldwide.

In friendship,

Izabel Korbet

YLC Member, New Hampshire