Assistive Technology is any device, item, piece of equipment or service that can be used to maintain or improve the functional abilities of children and adults with disabilities.

Since 1990, UCP/NYC has served as the New York City Regional TRAID Center (Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities), a federally funded project administered by the New York State Office of Advocate for Persons with Disabilities.

Assistive technology represents a wide range of products and services. It includes sophisticated (high tech) electronic devices such as adapted computers and voice output devices. It also includes simple (low tech) items such as door knob turners, pen grips, and eating utensils with large grip handles.

With assistance from technology, individuals with disabilities can learn more effectively, live more independently, and meet demanding career and life goals. The most important characteristic of assistive technology is that it provides increased capability for independence for persons with disabilities.

The primary goals of assistive technology are the enhancement of capabilities and the removal of barriers to performance. A person's ability to function and not his/her disability is the major consideration when providing assistive technology.

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Assistive Technology Devices are any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional abilities of persons with disabilities.

Assistive Technology Services are services that directly assist a person with a disability and/or their parent or caregiver in the selection, acquisition or use of an assistive technology device. Assistive technology services include:

• evaluation of the individual's needs in his/her environment
• purchasing, leasing and providing for the acquisition of assistive technology
• selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing or replacing assistive technology
• coordinating and using other therapies, interventions or services with assistive technology, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans
• training or technical assistance for a person with disabilities or, if appropriate, with that person's family or caregiver
• training or technical assistance for professionals, employers, or other individuals who are involved in the major life functions of individuals with disabilities.

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