The Role of Assistive Technology in Occupational Therapy

For individuals living with disabilities, performing everyday tasks can sometimes be challenging without the right tools and support. Assistive technology (AT) is a crucial part of occupational therapy, helping people gain independence, improve their quality of life, and participate fully in society. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) offers funding for assistive technology, making it more accessible to those who need it most.

In this article, we will explore the role of assistive technology in occupational therapy, the types of devices commonly used, and how the NDIS supports participants in accessing this technology to achieve greater independence.

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology refers to any device, system, or piece of equipment that helps individuals with disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. These tools range from simple, low-tech solutions to sophisticated, high-tech devices that can transform a person’s ability to live independently.

The goal of assistive technology in occupational therapy is to enable individuals to participate in daily activities, whether at home, in the community, or in the workplace. Occupational therapists play a key role in assessing an individual’s needs and recommending the most appropriate assistive devices to meet those needs.

Types of Assistive Technology in Occupational Therapy

1. Mobility Aids

   Mobility aids are designed to help individuals move around more easily. These devices include:

   • Wheelchairs: Both manual and powered wheelchairs provide mobility for people with physical impairments that affect their ability to walk.

   • Walkers and Rollators: These aids offer support and balance for individuals with limited mobility.

   • Scooters: Electric scooters offer an alternative to wheelchairs, allowing individuals to navigate their environment with ease.

   For individuals with limited mobility, these devices can make it easier to move around the home, access community services, and participate in social activities.

2. Communication Devices

   For individuals with speech or communication challenges, assistive technology can provide ways to express themselves. Examples include:

   • Speech Generating Devices (SGDs): These devices use text-to-speech technology to help individuals communicate verbally.

   • Picture Communication Boards: Low-tech boards with images or symbols that individuals can point to in order to communicate.

   • Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) apps: These apps can be installed on tablets or smartphones to assist with communication.

   Occupational therapists can recommend the most suitable communication device based on the individual’s needs and abilities, helping them interact with others and express themselves effectively.

3. Environmental Control Systems

   Environmental control systems allow individuals to manage various aspects of their environment with minimal physical effort. These systems can be particularly helpful for individuals with severe physical disabilities. Examples include:

   • Smart Home Technology: Devices like smart lights, smart thermostats, and voice-activated assistants can be controlled with a smartphone or tablet, allowing individuals to manage their home environment with ease.

   • Remote Control Systems: These systems allow individuals to operate appliances, doors, and windows with the press of a button or through voice commands.

   By gaining control over their surroundings, individuals can live more independently and safely in their homes.

4. Daily Living Aids

   Daily living aids are devices that help individuals perform everyday tasks like eating, dressing, and bathing. These aids include:

   • Adaptive Utensils: Specially designed utensils with large handles or other features that make them easier to grip for individuals with limited dexterity.

   • Dressing Aids: Tools like button hooks, zipper pulls, and long-handled shoehorns make dressing easier for individuals with limited mobility or hand strength.

   • Bathroom Aids: Grab bars, shower chairs, and raised toilet seats provide extra support for individuals when using the bathroom.

   These devices enable individuals to perform personal care tasks independently, reducing the need for assistance from caregivers.

5. Cognitive Support Technology

   For individuals with cognitive impairments, assistive technology can help with memory, organization, and time management. Some examples include:

   • Reminder Apps: Smartphone apps that provide alerts and reminders for appointments, medication, or daily tasks.

   • Cognitive Support Tools: Tools such as color-coded calendars or visual schedules to help individuals plan and organize their day.

   • Wearable Devices: Smartwatches or other devices that can send reminders or track important health data like heart rate or physical activity.

   These tools help individuals stay organized and manage daily tasks, improving their overall quality of life.

How Occupational Therapists Help with Assistive Technology

Occupational therapists (OTs) play a key role in helping individuals access the right assistive technology. Their role includes:

1. Assessment

   The first step is assessing the individual's specific needs and goals. An OT will evaluate the challenges the individual faces in performing daily tasks and identify areas where assistive technology could make a significant difference.

2. Recommendation

   Based on the assessment, the OT will recommend the most appropriate devices or systems. This might include working with the individual to trial different options to ensure the selected device meets their needs effectively.

3. Training

   Once the appropriate assistive technology is selected, the OT will provide training on how to use it effectively. This may involve teaching the individual or their caregivers how to operate the device, perform maintenance, and troubleshoot issues that might arise.

4. Ongoing Support

   As the individual’s needs change over time, the OT can adjust the assistive technology recommendations or suggest new devices to ensure continued independence and improved quality of life.

How the NDIS Supports Assistive Technology

The NDIS provides funding for assistive technology under its Capital Supports category. This funding covers a range of devices and systems that are considered necessary for helping individuals meet their NDIS plan goals. The process of accessing assistive technology through the NDIS involves several steps:

1. Including Assistive Technology in the NDIS Plan

   During the NDIS planning process, participants can work with their support coordinator or Local Area Coordinator (LAC) to identify their needs for assistive technology. This step is crucial to ensure that the necessary devices are included in the participant’s plan.

2. Getting an OT Assessment

   Participants will need an occupational therapist to assess their specific needs and recommend the appropriate technology. The OT will complete a report, which is submitted to the NDIS as part of the request for funding.

3. Trialing Assistive Devices

   In some cases, participants can trial assistive devices before purchasing them. This helps ensure that the technology meets their needs and will be effective in their daily lives.

4. Funding Approval and Purchase

   Once the NDIS approves the funding, the participant can purchase the recommended assistive technology. The funding covers the cost of the device, and in some cases, ongoing maintenance or training required to use it effectively.

Conclusion

Assistive technology plays a crucial role in helping individuals with disabilities live more independent, fulfilling lives. From mobility aids to communication devices, occupational therapists work closely with individuals to ensure they have the right tools to meet their specific needs. Under the NDIS, participants have access to funding that makes assistive technology more accessible, improving quality of life and empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals.

References

National Disability Insurance Agency. (2020). Assistive Technology Explained. Retrieved from https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-equipment/assistive-technology

Occupational Therapy Australia. (2021). What is Assistive Technology? Retrieved from https://otaus.com.au