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Assistive technology is any device, equipment, or system — whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized — that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of an individual with a disability. AT ranges from low-tech items (pencil grips, visual schedules, weighted utensils, adapted switches) to mid-tech (voice amplifiers, talking watches, adapted keyboards) to high-tech (speech-generating devices, eye-gaze systems, environmental control units, GPS trackers). The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 established AT programs in every state that provide device demonstrations, short-term loans, and financing options. Under IDEA, schools must consider AT for every child with an IEP. Under Medicaid and HCBS waivers, AT is a covered service category that can fund devices, evaluations, and training.
AT can dramatically increase independence and safety. Every IEP team must consider AT, and most HCBS waivers fund AT evaluations and devices. Families should request AT assessments through both school and waiver channels.