Accessibility
Introduction
Assistive technology, commonly referred to as AT, is a term used to describe physical supports or equipment that can help people do things that they might otherwise be unable to do safely or independently. It can incorporate lower cost items, for example a shower chair or an easy reacher or higher cost pieces of equipment, for example an electric bed. Some things that are designed for use by everyone may also have features that can support people to navigate everyday life more easily. Examples of this might be using software on your mobile phone to set a reminder or using voice commands to make a phone call or turn off the lights.
There are professionals such as occupational therapists or physiotherapists who can assess what type of assistive technology might be needed to increase mobility, safety and independence at home. They may recommend items that you haven’t thought of before which could make a big difference to your life.
Key Points
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Assistive technology can increase a person's independence but should not replace relationships and other other "human support".
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There are professionals such as occupational therapists or physiotherapists who can assess what type of assistive technology might be useful.
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There maybe schemes that fund assistive technology. For examples the NDIS, State Governments, community organisations such as the Lions Club and there are some Universities or Colleges that provide specifically designed devices or aids.
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There may be low-cost items you already have or are easy to purchase to help make life easier or safer.
Watch Videos
Stephen, living blind and free in the country
by Opening Homes
At the age of 33, Stephen was diagnosed with Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis. Now age 45, Steven is blind, uses a wheelchair and has 50% use of his left arm. Despite all of these challenges, Stephen was determined to stay in his home in the country. Stephen says that good design, technology, routine and practice, combined with motivation and courage are the key ingredients to his independence.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Trudy's purpose built accessible home
by Opening Homes
Trudy's purpose built accessible home is full of great design elements that allow her to maximise her environment. Her favourite features are the private backyard garden and the home's spacious layout, which makes it ideal for hosting friends and family. Her home is built, designed and managed by Julia Farr Housing Association.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Kate on moving into her own home
by Opening Homes
At the age of 28, Kate moved out of her parent's house. Her friends and family had encouraged her, but Kate wasn't confident that it was the right choice for her. She worried she would be lonely. But after only a few weeks in her new home, Kate realised she loved living on her own. Tailored custom accessible design and a great location make Kate's charming single story town house a winner.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Heather on designing a home for family and lifestyle
by Opening Homes
Heather is a happy mum and nan. She raised her two children as a single parent, which meant that having a well-designed home that enabled her was a must. Heather knew exactly what she needed and wanted, and so she met with an architect to bring her vision to life. The result is a functional, warm family home that matches Heather's needs, interests and values.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Tony's beautiful, touchable home
by Opening Homes
Tony may not be able to see, but he doesn't have a shortage of vision. Tony is a musician who exudes style and creativity from the threads he dons to the artistic apartment he’s designed with his wife Jane. Learn how Tony has created a functional home that is as pleasing to the touch as it is to the eye.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Jesse's home automation renovation
by Jess (Produced by JFA Purple Orange & Stretchy Tech)
Jesse's 1960s inner city apartment was given both a style and accessibility makeover. It's not only given him more freedom and independence, but it's also a place he is happy to come home to, and proud to have friends over.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Maria on finding ways to make your home work for you
by Maria (Produced by JFA Purple Orange & Opening Homes)
Maria is an outside the square thinker, and after years of experimenting and trying out different ways to do things, she has a ton of accessible tips and tricks to share. Recently she has been adding accessible technology into the mix, which has given her more control over her home enviornment than she thought possible.
Click on the Video to watch ->
Useful Links
Accessible Accommodation
by Accessible Accomodation
Like a holiday? Search and book accessible holiday accommodation. Feel secure knowing what you see here is exactly what to expect on arrival. this web site was created by dedicated team who also have disabilities and love to travel.
Click Here to Read - "Accessible Accommodation"
Independent Living Centres Australia
by ILC
Independent Living Centres Australia (ILCA) is a collective network with member ILC's from each Australian state.Their vision is 'to be recognised as the leading, collective, impartial voice for Assistive Technology.'
Assistive Technology Explained
by NDIS
A comprehensive list of resources explaining Assistive Technology including the video, "We've improved the way we fund assistive technology'.
Assistive Technology Australia
by Assistive Technology Australia
Assistive Technology Australia (previously, Independent Living Centre NSW) is a leading information, education, and advisory centre for Assistive Technology and the Built Environment. We are located in Westpoint Blacktown, NSW Australia and are a not-for-profit, community based organisation and Public Benevolent Institution.
We provide impartial advice, information and leadership that builds capacity and optimises the value of assistive technology in leading a life of choice.
TOM Melbourne
by TOM Melbourne
"We create and build products that improve the lives of people with a disability, where there is no obvious or current solution in the market. We focus on making assistive technology more accessible and affordable for people with complex needs."