Assistive technology (AT) refers to a variety of devices and strategies that are designed to make certain tasks easier, including those involved in caregiving. Assistive technology comes in all forms, types, and sizes. It can be as complex as a motorized wheelchair with a custom-built seat. It can also be as simple as sitting on a stool while cooking, cleaning, or doing other household chores to preserve energy and maintain safety. Assistive technology may also be helpful if you are a caregiver. It may make certain tasks easier for you to complete and may reduce the amount of time that you spend on caregiving issues,. And it may have the added benefit of increasing the functional ability of the person who is receiving care.
Because the symptoms of MS vary from person to person, your particular needs may be different from another person's. First, it is important to determine what devices would be best for your situation. You may want to consult a health care professional and ask for an assessment or advice. Talking to a health care professional with experience in assistive technology will prevent frustration, wasted time and money. Your individual physician may be able to help, but you may inquire about a referral to an occupational, physical or speech therapist--all of whom typically have knowledge of assistive technology. Your choice of therapist may be based upon your individual needs. Another option is to ask for help from an assistive technology specialist. Visit this web site from the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America for a listing of state projects on assistive technology:
http://69.89.27.238/~resnaorg/taproject/at/statecontacts.html.
Locating and purchasing assistive technology is easier today than it has been in the past, primarily because its usefulness is becoming recognized by more and more people and demand is growing. However, not every place is going to offer everything that you might be interested in using. Lending libraries for assistive technology do exist in some states, and you might want to try out several different items before you decide to make a purchase.
Some forms of assistive technology may be found in stores in your local community. For example, some farm and ranch stores may carry gardening tools that have been designed with ergonomic principles in mind. Or you may find a cover at your neighborhood hardware store that can be snapped onto a house or car key to make it easier to grasp. A local medical supply store or pharmacy may be another option. You may find walkers and items for toileting or bathing in these locations. Online retailers are another option if you are not able to find assistive technology items in your community. There are companies that specialize in offering assistive technology. You can visit them online, or you may purchase items through their catalogs. Look at different options. Compare prices and quality before making a decision.
You may be interested in visiting the web site: Welcome to My MS My Way
http://www.mymsmyway.com/home.html. Here, you can complete an interactive quiz regarding assistive technology and your needs, particularly related to MS. You are then given possible solutions to meet your individual needs and situation.
For more information about assistive technology, go to www.extension.org/pages/Assistive_Technology_and_Adaptive_Equipment.
Here are some additional resources:
National Multiple Sclerosis Society
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society offers a web site detailing assistive technology as it relates to MS. For more information, visit the society's home page at
http://www.nationalmssociety.org/index.aspx.
Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America
This society is composed of people with an interest in both technology and disability who work to improve people’s lives through the use of technology. The society supports research and educational activities, and provides advocacy services. For more information, visit
http://www.resna.org or call 703-524-6686 (Voice); 703-524-6639 (TTY)
Assistive Technology Suppliers
Active Forever
www.activeforever.com
800-377-8033
AliMed
www.AliMed.com
800-225-2610
Gold Violin
www.goldviolin.com
877-648-8400
Sammons Preston
www.sammonspreston.com
800-323-5547
Sears Health & Wellness
www.searshealthandwellness.com
800-326-1750
