Helpful Links to Assistive Technology

Content

• Introduction
• General Resources
• Devices and Software
• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and Other Visual Supports

---

Introduction

This article contains a brief list of assistive technology resources, which includes companies and specific software and/or devices.

General

• Ability Hub: This web site will direct people with a disability who find operating a computer difficult or impossible to adaptive equipment and alternative methods available for accessing computers (e.g. screen readers, touch screen capability, etc.)

Specific Pages on AAC Devices and Software

• AAC Software
• AAC Devices
• ABLEDATA: Information On Assistive Technology: Sponsored by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, U.S. Department of Education. Get information on assistive technology devices—including reviews—and assistance locating companies providing devices.
• AbleLink: Offers software that simplifies the interface of a desktop computer as well as variety of software programs and packages for use on handheld devices. The programs for handheld devices combine universally available features found on many handheld devices with special features designed to support users with intellectually disabilities or other cognitive differences. The software/packages can be purchased separately or preinstalled on a handheld device.

• AbleNet: An international company with a line of AAC options; devices such as switches, environmental control units and mounts; and special education classroom curriculum and software

• Applications for iPad/iPod/iPhone: Descriptions with live links to various applications in areas of communication, organization, reading, writing, etc.

• The Attainment Company: A company that offers curriculum, materials and technology specifically designed to meet the needs of those with cognitive disabilities. Technology available includes AAC, switches and other items to simplify computer access.

• National Center on Accessible Instructional Materials: A resource to provide information about and access to accessible instructional materials (AIM) for those who have difficulty accessing print material

• Spectronics: An international company that provides software and other technologies designed to support inclusive learning including AAC, switches and mounting devices, and supports for using a computer.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)

• Alexicom Tech: An Internet-based Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system designed by parents of an AAC user and speech-language pathologists. The AAC system will work anytime and anywhere, online or offline. Alexicom is designed to be extremely user-friendly and has the ability to grow with the user as his or her needs change. Has approval by at least one state’s developmental disabilities division to be considered (when bundled with a computer) as on par with any other AAC device. Note: An Apple app allows for use on the iPhone/iPad.

• ACI Incorporated: Access to information about and links to AAC resources/vendors and AAC organizations

• Applications for iPad/iPod/iPhone: Descriptions with live links to various applications in various areas including AAC/communication

• Augmentative Resources: A resources for materials to be used with Picture Symbols, The Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) and Boardmaker® Picture Communication Symbols^TM (PCS)

• Autism Index: Includes an information page on choosing an AAC device as well as links to organizations, related sites, and vendors

• Dynavox: AAC device, available in various models, from a company specializing in speech generating devices

• Jive! – Handheld Communicator: A handheld AAC device with capacity for message building using text or symbols

• Lightwriter®: Speech generating device available from Toby Churchill Ltd, a company specializing in communication aids

Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and Other Visual Supports

• AbleLink: Offers a variety of software programs and packages for use on handheld devices. The programs combine universally available features found on many handheld devices with special features designed to support users with intellectually disabilities or other cognitive differences. The software/packages can be purchased separately or preinstalled on a handheld device.

• do2learn: A website that offers resources and materials for creating picture schedules, calendars, social stories and more.

• Picture Planner: An icon-based personal planning software program that helps individuals with cognitive disabilities create and manage their own schedules. It is based on extensive field research on cognitive accessibility and is designed to maximize independent use.