Striving to match the latest in adaptive computer equipment with a client’s need for work applications.
WHAT IS COMPUTER ACCESS?
Computers have become a pervasive part of our lives in personal, educational and business settings. People with disabilities often face unique barriers in gaining computer access. There are many devices and software applications available to overcome these barriers.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE EVALUATION
An evaluation for computer access starts with a personal interview to help the specialist gain an understanding of how an individual’s functional limitations create a barrier for computer access. Also, during this interview, the specialist will seek to understand the particular requirements that you, as a client, may have for computer applications.
A client must possess basic computer literacy to be eligible for an AT evaluation. The Assistive Technology program within MDRS does not provide computer literacy training for MDRS clients. Basic computer literacy can be obtained through community colleges, the Addie McBryde Center, the REACH Center, or other sources outside of MDRS.
WHAT TYPE OF EQUIPMENT IS AVAILABLE?
Recommendations for alternative computer applications are as varied and unique as the individuals that we serve. An individual with poor vision may require the spoken voice output of text shown on a computer’s monitor. A person with limited fine motor skills may need to use a special keyboard or a voice recognition program to enter data into their computer. Often it is found that environmental factors, where or how the computer is used, present significant problems that can be addressed by changes of lighting or positioning.
As computer usage play an increasingly important role in our lives and in our work, our goal is to provide our clients with barrier free access through an informed and appropriate application of assistive technology.
MDRS does not provide routine maintenance or computer repair.
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