What is assistive technology (AT)?
Assistive technology, (also known as adaptive technology) are devices, apps, aids or equipment that help people living with vision impairment to live independently. It can help make everyday living easier or safer, such as reading, communicating and getting around to different places.
Get support from the Assistive Technology Team
Types of AT
It covers a wide range and includes:
- Cooking and food preparation equipment
- Writing and communications solutions
- Apps for smartphones, tablets (eg. iPad) and other smart devices
- Handheld and wearable devices (eg. watches, glasses etc)
- Software for magnifying or reading out text on computer screens
- Refreshable Braille displays or keyboards and notetakers
- Devices to convert written text into spoken words
What can assistive technology do?
Our occupational therapists can advise and support people living with vision impairment to:
- Use a smartphone to navigate, stay in contact, browse social media or play games
- Access email, browse the internet or other tablet and computer-based tasks
- Read books, postal mail, recipes and much more.
Our team of Assistive Technology specialists can:
- Provide assistance in accessing grants and funding
- Provide workshops and training in assistive technology
- Offer advice and information on equipment and devices
- Organise equipment trials and training
- Assist with the installation of software and equipment
Grants and funding
NDIS funding in many cases covers assistive technology, but there are a number of State, Federal and non-Governmental Departments which may also provide funding, depending on individual circumstances.
Through our onsite and online shop, VisAbility is a leading supplier of assistive technology, adaptive equipment, vision aids and aids to daily living (ADL) for people living with blindness or vision impairment.
Watch our most recent video to find out more about Assistive Technology.
How to get support
If you are interested in finding out more about any assistive technology please contact us using the form below to make an appointment. This is important as our skilled Assistive Technology staff are regularly out and about conducting assessments of client’s needs and providing specialised 1:1 training.
If you require funding for the purchase of any assistive technology, we need to dedicate time to work with you to determine what works best for you with the budget that you have.
There are also a number of low vision support groups within Perth and across the state, which can connect you with like-minded people to build friendships and offer support.
If you are a provider and wish to refer a client, please use our low vision medical certificate (online referral form) to make your referral.