Assistive Technology

Upcoming Conference sessions on technology at the ARRM Annual Conference

Utilizing technology to not only provide opportunities for greater independence, but to also assist with the declining workforce is not necessarily a new topic, but it is one that has made it to the top of many individuals lists due to recently passed legislation in Minnesota.

A 159 hour per week drop in caregiver hours seems dramatic. That’s because it is—but in a good way. Ryan Sebelius was able to achieve greater independence while decreasing his need for in-person support through the use of remote support technology. Though not “traditionally” supported 24 hours a day as he was before the addition of technology, he is certainly not without support during the times a caregiver isn’t physically present in his home.

Technology sounds like a great addition to care plans. You’ve heard it can help increase independence for individuals with disabilities, and assist with staff management and how staff do their jobs. But where do you start? How do you turn conversations into actionable strategies? How do you find the specific technology supports that will work for the individual?

Not everyone communicates the same way. For some individuals, expressing thoughts, feelings, and emotions is made more challenging by certain disabilities. For non-verbal individuals, assistive technology supports offer additional ways to make connections, be heard, and join in. This is especially true for Dan.

Assistive technology: Devices, equipment or a combination of both that improve the person’s ability to communicate in the community, control or access his/her environment, perform activities of daily living.

The thinking is changing around what “accessible” can mean and the role technology can play. Individuals, their families, providers, and case managers are all looking to technology supports to assist individuals (and the staff that help support them) reach their full potential.

Having started a remote support company nearly 14 years ago, Dustin Wright, founder of Disability Cocoon, is no stranger to the disability services landscape. His new venture, Disability Cocoon—a disability technology catalyst organization, is bringing the disability community together through events like technology festivals (or conferences).

One of the greatest features on Facebook that allows like-minded people to connect outside of their inner circle is groups. A Facebook group is a page that can be created for an organization or business to promote activities or for a specific topic that enthusiasts can learn more about and contribute to the conversation.

Head mouse and voice mouse software that lets you control your computer or tablet via your existing webcam by utilizing simple gestures (like smiles).

TRC mentors are individuals who have gone through the technology implementation process and wish to help others on their tech solution journeys. Provider mentors are champions for technology use within their organizations and have first-hand experience in finding, funding, and facilitating technology solutions which not only provide increased independence for individuals, but also assist in extending support staff reach as well.