Assistive Technology Basics
What is assistive technology?
Any device, equipment, or tool that helps a person increase independence, communication, mobility, learning, or daily living skills.
AAC stands for...
Augmentative and Alternative Communication
If you notice unusual bruising, illness, or injury, what should you do?
Report it immediately according to agency policy.
Who should use assistive technology?
Anyone whose plan identifies it as beneficial.
A visual schedule falls off the wall.
Replace it.
True or False:
Assistive technology only includes expensive electronic devices.
False!
Examples include:
True or False:
You should speak instead of waiting for the client to use their device.
False.
Give wait time.
True or False:
Only parents need to know about medical concerns.
False.
Appropriate supervisors and required staff should also be informed according to policy.
True or False:
Staff can decide to stop using visual supports if they think the client doesn't need them anymore.
False. Changes should be made through the appropriate treatment or support planning process.
A PECS book is missing.
Notify the supervisor and replace or locate it as soon as possible.
Name three examples of assistive technology commonly used in ABA.
A client presses "bathroom."
What should staff do?
Honor the communication and assist appropriately.
A child begins coughing continuously while eating.
What should you do first?
Follow CPR training/emergency procedures and agency protocols.
A client's hearing aid battery dies. What should staff do?
notify appropriate individuals, and document if required.
A client begins signing "help."
Respond promptly and determine what assistance they need.
Why is consistency important when using assistive technology?
Because consistent use helps clients learn, reduces frustration, promotes independence, and prevents regression.
A client repeatedly presses random buttons.
Should staff take the device away?
No. Redirect and teach appropriate use unless safety is involved.
Why is it important to follow dietary restrictions exactly?
Because allergies, choking risks, diabetes, swallowing disorders, or medical conditions may be involved.
A wheelchair is blocking the hallway. Should staff move it without asking?
Only if necessary for safety and according to agency procedures while ensuring the client's needs are met.
A parent says the AAC device can stay home today.
Discuss according to agency procedures and communicate with your supervisor if the device is part of the client's support plan.
A client has an AAC device but staff answer every question for them because it's faster.
What is the problem?
Staff are reducing communication opportunities and increasing prompt dependency.
A client drops their communication device on purpose. What should staff NOT do?
Instead:
Teach appropriate handling while keeping communication available.
A parent says, "It's okay today. Just give him what everyone else is eating." The care plan lists a medically restricted diet. What do you do?
Follow the approved care plan and consult your supervisor if there is any conflict.
A client refuses to wear prescribed adaptive equipment. What should staff do?
Follow the behavior/support plan, assess for discomfort, encourage appropriate use, and notify the appropriate supervisor if concerns continue.
A client has headphones that reduce sensory overload. Another child wants to play with them. What should you do?
The headphones are assistive equipment and should remain available for the client they are assigned to.