HONOLULU (KHON2) — Have you ever heard of assistive technology? AT is any product or system that improves the capabilities of people with disabilities.
This is where “Assistive Technology Resource Centers of Hawaii” comes into play, helping bridge the gap between people and caregivers with the latest tech.
Think of it as a library of gadgets.
“We have everything sectioned off for daily living and hearing,” said Jason Julian, A.T. specialist.
Just like a library book, the device can be borrowed to try at home before buying it from digital magnifiers to voice amplifiers and specialized utensils.
“There’s all these little areas where we just listen to what the individual what problems they’re having, and then we can recommend some of the devices,” Julian said.
“This is much more convenient, especially for restaurants. They can scoop up their food, and it will auto-adjust to their movement. So especially for those who have experienced stroke, and they might have locked-in syndrome and such.”
Many different assistive technologies can help the individual and take some of the burden off their caregivers.
“Having the right technology or tool for individuals with disabilities is going to relieve them of the caregiver of having to be with the person all the time. The Assistive Technology is mainly to gain the person’s independence and enhance their quality of life,” explained Jodi Asato, Executive Director.
The Assistive Technology Resource Centers of Hawaii also has an exchange program for computers and lightly used medical devices.
“We get a lot of donations that come in through the community, whether it’s because they no longer use it or someone has passed on. And so by us benefiting, we then, in return, give it out to the community members who are qualified to get that device,” said Asato.
If you’re interested, the best thing to do is make an appointment and get connected with an AT Specialist who is happy to help.
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“Everyone doesn’t know what assistive technology is, so it’s always exciting to introduce it to them,” Julian said.
“Because our services are free and this is tax paying dollars, we encourage you folks to use it so they can get access.”