The only “disabling” thing about living with a disability is the inconvenience of things designed to meet the needs of most people. If you are in a wheelchair, a long flight of stairs presents a challenge. By removing barriers to access, for example by building wheelchair ramps, it is possible to minimize inconvenience to people with disabilities. While ramps are not a new invention, there are numerous technologies that can be used to assist the disabled.
Assistive technologies are applications of modern technology to make it easier for people with disabilities to live their lives independently and with confidence. The first law specifically advocating the development of assistive technology is the Assistive Technology for People with Disabilities Act of 1988. Since then, numerous laws have been passed to expand the use of assistive technologies and support their development.
Many of the earliest applications of assistive technology were for people with hearing difficulties. For decades, telecommunications companies have been required to provide text-to-speech systems for the hearing-impaired, including teletext and subtitles. These systems were implemented before the development of effective computer-based text-to-speech, so they were carried out by people trained to listen and write in real time.
Assistive technologies for the use of computers have boomed in recent years as access to computers and the Internet have become a crucial component of modern life. With the help of screen readers and similar technology, visually impaired people can use the Internet almost as easily as a non-visually impaired person. This has allowed visually impaired people to have access to the vast amount of information available online.
Aside from technologies for the hearing and visually impaired, people with other types of disabilities also benefit from technology. Mobility technology and durable medical equipment allow people with conditions like cerebral palsy to get around independently, something that would have been nearly impossible not long ago. Mobility technologies have also helped many older people live much fuller lives than they would otherwise.
If you live with a disability, you can seek financial assistance from the Social Security Administration to help pay for assistive technology. However, the process of receiving social security benefits can be difficult. Only an attorney can help you successfully obtain the technology you need.
The experienced Indiana disability attorneys at Hankey Law Office are here to help. To discuss your case directly with an Indianapolis disability attorney, call the Hankey Law Office today.