May 3, 2017
Assistive technology is specialized equipment or devices that can help individuals with disabilities with their daily activities in areas such as communication, self-care, mobility, and vision. It also helps individuals with disabilities to live a healthy and independent lifestyle.
What does assistive technology look like?
Some examples of assistive technology are as follows:
Communication: Speech devices, iPads, Writing Instruments
Self-care: Shower Benches, Lowered Counters
Mobility: Wheelchairs, Lifts, Scooters
Hearing: Hearing Aids
Vision: Magnifiers, Screen Readers
Where can I get information about assistive technology?
Therapists such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech language pathologists, and audiologists who work in clinics, hospitals and community based agencies in Manitoba can provide information about how and where you can borrow, rent, or buy specialized equipment for an individual with disability.
In Manitoba, some organizations and agencies that provide information about assistive equipment include:
Manitoba Family Services – Information for Manitobans with Disabilities
This page provides comprehensive information about what assistive technology is, how one can access it, and who pays for it.
Society for Manitobans with Disabilities (SMD)
Through their Assistive Technology Support Program, the SMD helps individuals with disabilities gain access to assistive technology and devices to improve their daily lives. The program reimburses 50% of the costs of an assistive technology device, up to a maximum of $2,500 or the unfunded amount, whichever is lesser.
Other References
Winnipeg Regional Health Authority – Communication Devices Program