Assistive Technology: Past - Present - Future

Author: RehaDesign
Published: 2009/01/17 - Updated: 2019/03/10
Topic: Assistive Technology - Publications List

Page Content: Synopsis - Introduction - Main

Synopsis: Assistive technology is not just computer programs or electronic devices, this report dispels confusion around assistive technology and encourages you to share your vision for the future of assistive technology.

Introduction

Assistive technology is NOT only computer programs or electronic devices.

Many people equate assistive technology with sophisticated electronic devices, this report dispels the confusion around assistive technology and encourages the reader to share their vision for the future of assistive technology in a new website.

Main Item

Assistive technology, sometimes known as Adaptive Technology, includes devices or equipment used to maintain, increase or improve the abilities of individuals with disabilities.

Since many people think of computers when thinking of technology, this is a common mistake. Assistive technology doesn't have to be high-tech, but it should serve the purpose of "assistance" and can include anything from a stick one uses to reach for something to a walker or a wheelchair, or more complex items such as environmental controls or adapted vehicles.

This means that assistive technology has existed since the first homosapiens picked up a branch to help himself over rough terrain.

Sophisticated forms of assistive technology date back for centuries as well, as the 6th century saw an image of a wheelchair being carved in stone on a Chinese sarcophagus. Today, assistive technology is available to support many common disabilities. For example assistive technology may:

What is the Future of Assistive Technology?

A new website has been created at newdisability.com which is meant to be a platform for communication between the disabled community and the assistive technology industry.

There is a forum where users, manufacturers and distributors can express feedback about all kinds of innovative assistive technology.

Visitors can not only express the products that they like and already know, but also what they would like to see.

Attribution/Source(s):
This quality-reviewed publication was selected for publishing by the editors of Disabled World (DW) due to its significant relevance to the disability community. Originally authored by RehaDesign, and published on 2009/01/17 (Edit Update: 2019/03/10), the content may have been edited for style, clarity, or brevity. For further details or clarifications, RehaDesign can be contacted at rehadesign.com. NOTE: Disabled World does not provide any warranties or endorsements related to this article.

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Citing Information and Page References

Disabled World (DW) is a comprehensive online resource providing information and news related to disabilities, assistive technologies, and accessibility. Founded in 2004 our website covers a wide range of topics, including disability rights, healthcare, education, employment, and independent living, with the goal of supporting the disability community and their families.

Cite This Page (APA): RehaDesign. (2009, January 17 - Last revised: 2019, March 10). Assistive Technology: Past - Present - Future. Disabled World (DW). Retrieved February 8, 2025 from www.disabled-world.com/assistivedevices/assistive-technology.php

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