The AT Messenger ....bringing technology to you Published by the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative Vol. 3, Issue 2, Mar/Apr 1995 Did You Know....? Beth Mineo, DATI Director ...That we are surrounded by assistive technology success sotries here in Delaware? For example, are you aware that several Delawareans have invented new assistive technologies? Did you know that the University of Delaware is home to the national centers for rehabilitation robotics and augmentative and alternative communication? Do you realize how many new assistive technology services have come into being in the past few years? Do you have any idea how many lives have been changed when individuals find the right technology to meet their needs? The national press seems to gravitate toward interesting "tech tales," yet Delaware seems to be underrepresented. I think part of the reason is that Delawareans tend to go about their business, hesitating to call attention to their successes. I would like to bring the spotlight closer to home, so that we can all appreciate what is going on in our own backyard. To get us started, with the next issue of the AT Messenger we will feature a column called "Homegrown" in which we will highlight personal success stories and technology innovations emanating from The First State. If you would like to contribute to this column, or would like to suggest a topic, please give me a call. DATI would like to recognize homegrown AT expertise in another way. Starting with this coming year's annual conference in October, we would like to feature more of our in-state expertise. On Page 5 of this newsletter, you will find a proposal submission form. If you would like to share your AT know-how and experiences with about 300 others with common interests, please submit your ideas for a presentation. If selected, you will be featured in the conference program and will receive complimentary conference registration. More details can be found on Pages 4 and 5. Send completed application to: Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative A.I. duPont Institute P.O. Box 269, 1600 Rockland Rd. Wilmington, DE 19899 Phone: (302)651-6790 TDD: (302)651-6794 FAX: (302)651-6793 New DATI Publications Available! Delaware Assistive Technology Resource Guide The Resource Guide is a compilation of more than 120 service provision agencies and consultants with expertise in assessment, prescription, and/or client training. Specific service areas are indexed for ease of use. Contact information, fee structures, and populations served are listed for each agency or consultant. Sections for sign language interpreting and brailling services are also included. Independence Through Technology Video This informative 14-minute videotape is a wonderful overview of how assistive technology can aid in maintaining independence for individuals with disabilities. It is ideal for use in general AT awareness or training activities and is open-captioned. Information about the DATI and other AT resources in Delaware are also included. Focus On... Assistive Technology Access Alternatives Be a "Switch Hitter" Patty Hove, Chief Occupational Therapist Kent County Assistive Technology Resource Center How often do you use a switch in everyday life? To turn on the radio? Turn off a light? Do you use your hands? Due to the recent advance in technology, operating a switch is no longer reserved for the hands! Individuals who don't have good control of their hand movements can use other parts of their body to activate a switch. An occupational therapist (OT) helps determine the best placement of the switch and what type of switch should be used. The proper switch and switch placement makes a difference in function and comfort. Upon completion of a comprehensive switch assessment, which involves obtaining a background history, goals of the individual, evaluation of motor and visual/motor skills, and trial use of switches, the OT determines what is the most reliable movement pattern (least amount of energy expended by the individual), makes recommendations for the placement of a switch or switches, and the type of switch that would be most effective. In addition, the quality and type of movement are important factors in choosing the best switch for an individual. Muscle tone may increase and adversely influence a movement. Other important considerations include: * Will the switch be used for one function (i.e., turning a light on and off) or multiple functions (i.e., computer access, ECU operation, etc.)? * Does the switch site encourage abnormal or primitive reflexive patterns? * Are there multiple switch sites available for separate functions: mobility, communication, ECU (Environmental Control Unit) operation, toy activation, computer access, etc.? * If the switch site is determined to be near the face, is it cosmetically pleasing, or does it obstruct the individual's face and inhibit communication? How? * How many switches will be needed? Will they look fluid with an individual's tray or chair or become "monstrosities with multiple arms"? * How often will the switch be used? Durability is an important feature. * Will the switches be mounted? Who is responsible? * Who is responsible for recommendations and is follow-up provided? * Has a good team approach been utilized? * What are the costs of the switches and mounting systems? After a switch assessment, these individuals became more independent in various aspects of their lives: D. uses her right foot to push a rocker switch placed on the footplate of her wheelchair for powered mobility. Foot placement was the key to allowing D. to use powered mobility. G. uses his elbow to activate the switch for using his computer. He was wasting a lot of energy trying to use his hand to hit the switch time after time and, even then, accuracy was a problem. J. uses a switch placed above his knee to access his communication system. His knee was where his movements were most controlled, so a knee switch increased his rate of communication. J.W. uses his chin to turn on a joystick that operates (by infrared) his heating, air conditioning, and his electric door. K.W. uses a large flat durable switch at her foot to turn on the television because, when using a switch placed at her hand, she used all of her energy to focus on the switch and missed the action on the TV. Her foot switch clicks when she hits it so she doesn`t need to look at it to use it. When looking at an individual's goals for independence, consider how a switch assessment can supplement traditional therapeutic evaluations. Your local Assistive Technology Resource Center has a switch assessment kit which offers an array of over 40 different switches, but be sure to consult with an occupational therapist about switch placement and the type of switch in order to save time and energy for you and the individual who will be using it. In the Wink of an Eye Ken Gardner, AT Specialist Sussex County Assistive Technology Resource Center People with severe physical disabilities typically want to live as normal and independent life as possible. The EyeGaze Computer System from LC Technologies is one doorway to such independence. If a person has steady head control and the ability to move one eye, he or she can access a system that can control lights and appliances, turn on the TV or VCR, use the telephone, read text, type a letter, play various games, or access the DOS mode on the computer. One of the beauties of the EyeGaze is that the client needs no prior knowledge of computer operation. The computer is the tool by which the many facets of the EyeGaze can be utilized. Seated in front of the computer monitor, the user operates the system by looking at rectangular EyeGaze keys that are displayed on the computer monitor. To press an EyeGaze key, the user looks at the key for a specified period of time. The gaze duration required to visually activate a key, typically a fraction of a second, is adjustable. Following are some examples of daily living activities that can be accomplished with the EyeGaze system: * Turning on lights and appliances (no special house wiring is required) * Communication - In conjunction with a speech synthesizer, it provides voice output for non-verbal users * Typewriter - A total of four keyboard configurations range from simple to complex. Whatever is typed on the screen can be printed or spoken by the speech synthesizer. * Telephone - The user may place or receive calls. Frequently used numbers can be stored in a "book". Non-verbal users may utilize the speech synthesizer to talk on the phone. * Second computer mode - The system can operate as a keyboard input to a second computer giving the user the ability to operate off-the-shelf programs. * TV/VCR - The system, used in conjunction with an infrared remote control device, allows the user to control both a TV and a VCR. * Read Text - A program that allows the user to select text for display and provides visually controlled "page-turning". The system is portable in that cameras and monitors are installed at each of two sites. A small computer is carried between those sites. Along with portability, the EyeGaze system has many adjustable parameters that can easily be changed to suit the individual. Additional information is available by contacting: Nancy Cleveland LC Technologies, Inc. 9455 Silver King Court Fairfax, VA 22031 Phone: (703)385-7133 Fax: (703)385-7137 LC Technologies also has a toll-free number available for consumers to speak with a Registered Nurse about patient evaluation, medical questions, and the usefulness of the EyeGaze System. That number is (800)733-5284. Annual Conference Presentations Sought Plans are well underway already for the 1995 DATI Annual Conference, to be held on Wednesday, October 4, 1995 at the Sheraton Inn and Conference Center in Dover. As in the past, the conference will feature a keynote address, exhibits of assistive technology products and services, and several short sessions on various AT-related topics. The DATI Training Activities Committee is currently soliciting proposals for presentations to be made during these short sessions. Presentations should address assistive technology issues and will last 1-1/4 hours, including time for questions. Proposals for presentations must include a one-page abstract of the topic to be covered, expected outcomes of the session, and the method of instruction to be used. The Committe will rank all proposals according to their quality and topical relevance. The most highly-ranked proposals will be incorporated into the conference program. Conference registration fees will be waived for those presenters whose proposals are selected for presentation. FINANCING ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY A Way of Thinking Ron Sibert, Funding Specialist, DATI Locating funding for assistive technology has been described by some as a science. Others consider it an art. Still others call it an exercise in patience and persistence. Sometimes, though, it is simply a way of thinking. The field of assistive technology is quickly evolving beyond the traditional medical model. Educational and vocational applications are taking on lives of their own, and such equipment cannot always be purchased through public or private medical insurance. The resources of charitable organizations are also often limited. Then there are the far reaching implications of laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act as amended (sometimes requiring various agencies to purchase assistive devices). But this, mostly because of the perceived expected cost, has generated a fair amount of concern in the business, educational and political arenas. The search is on for creative solutions. In his famous book, Jonathan Livingston Seagull, Richard Bach tells the story of Jonathan, a bird who wanted to fly faster and farther than any bird had ever flown. At one point in the story, he asks a sage to show him the fastest method of reaching a particular mountain peak that stood far off in the distance. His mentor told him that the fastest way to reach his goal was simply "to be there." In the world of assistive technology funding, "being there" can mean being sufficiently aware to make the right purchase at the right time for the right reasons. At the agency level, it means purchasing only equipment that is, or can easily be made, accessible. A little forethought can not only make the purchase of technology much less expensive in the long run, but taken as a common practice, it can even influence the types of products that are made available for purchase on the open market. For example, schools, businesses, service providers, financial institutions, and others are relying increasingly on technology to perform almost every function in their respective operations. Imagine a world in which these organizations' purchasing officers were aware of disability-related issues-so much so that all of the office machines and computers they purchased for everyone had accessibility features built into them. Given legal requirements and limited budgets, this enlightened approach to purchasing makes a great deal of sense-dollars and sense. For instance, when a company or school buys a computer that can accommodate a range of input and output devices, the special needs of individuals with a variety of disabilities can be met by simply "plugging in" the appropriate adaptations. This is clearly preferable to buying a whole new set of machines or having to make costly (and often unreliable) modifications to an existing system. The marketplace is also affected in this scenario because as purchasing for accessibility becomes more commonplace, mainstream manufacturers respond to the increased demand by producing even higher quantities of accessible products for general consumption. Similarly for individuals, getting the most for the dollar depends on the awareness and preparedness of the buyer. Selecting the appropriate device for a particular person is best accomplished through an evaluation by a qualified (usually health care) professional. Purchasing the equipment that best serves the individual's needs is the one sure-fire way to avoid wasteful, multiple purchases. Again... a way of thinking. New Law Affects Disabled Medicare Beneficiaries Release from ELDERinfo A new federal law has been enacted which amends the Social Security Act. This law makes several changes to the federal requirements for Medicare supplement insurance. Effective January 1, 1995, disabled Medicare beneficiaries will be eligible for the 6-month open enrollment period for Medicare supplement insurance upon their 65th birthday. Prior to this new law, these persons were not eligible for the 6-month open enrollment period that recipients of regular Social Security benefits enjoyed unless they enrolled in Medicare Part B on or after their 65th birthday. During the open enrollment period, a person can purchase the Medicare supplement policy of his or her choice and the insurance company cannot turn them down or charge them more. Additionally, all disabled Medicare beneficiaries who turned 65 between November 5, 1991 and January 1, 1995 and who were not eligible for the 6-month open enrollment because they were enrolled in Medicare Part B prior to reaching age 65, are given a one-time, 6-month, open enrollment period beginning January 1, 1995. This one-time federal open enrollment period applies to any Medicare beneficiary who had Part B coverage prior to age 65 and turned 65 between November 5, 1991 and January 1, 1995. Delaware Medicare beneficiaries with questions about this new law or Medicare, Medicaid, Medicare supplement insurance, long-term care insurance or other health insurance should call ELDERinfo at (800)336-9500 to schedule an appointment with a volunteer health insurance counselor at one of thirty-seven counseling sites statewide. ELDERinfo is sponsored as a public service by the Delaware Insurance Department and the DHSS Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities. Don't Quit When things go wrong as they sometimes will, When the road you're trudging seems all up hill, When the funds are low and the debts are high When you want to smile but you have to sigh, When care is pressing you down a bit, Rest, if you must, but don't quit. Life is queer with its twists and turns, As everyone of us sometimes learns, And many a failure turns about When he might have won had he stuck it out; Don't give up though the pace seems slow, You may succeed with another blow. Success is failure turned inside out, The silver tint in the clouds of doubt; And you never can tell how close you are, It may be near when it seems so far: So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit, It's when things seem worst, you must not quit. -author unknown Opportunities: Chrysler Offers Incentives The Chrysler Corporation is offering a cash reimbursement of up to $1,000 under its new Automobility Program. The money can be used toward the purchase and installation of adaptive driving and passenger equipment installed in all 1994, `95, and `96 Chrysler vehicles. The programs run through December 31, 1995. Customers also receive complimentary telephone debit cards with 30 minutes of prepaid calling time. For more information about the program, contact David Barnas with Chrysler at (313)252-8887. Need to Send a Message Fast- In Braille? Western Union now has a braille telegram service available. Call them at (800)325-6000 for details. New AT Articles Available The Assistive Technology Funding and Systems Change Project has produced the following informational articles: * "The Americans with Disabilities Act and Assistive Technology" outlines how assistive technology devices and services can be used to meet the requirements of the ADA. * "Tax Law Provides Subsidy for Assistive Technology" summarizes the Disabled Access Credit and the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Removal, both of which reduce costs for employers who provide accommodations under the ADA. * "Fast Facts on Individualized Education Programs" discusses ways to include assistive technology in an IEP and tips to help make sure it is! Free copies of any of these articles can be ordered through the DATI Central Site by calling (302)651-6790 (V) or (302)651-6794 (TDD). Augmentative Communication Workshops at A.I. duPont Institute The Augmentative Communication & Technology Clinic of the A.I. duPont Institute in Wilmington is sponsoring two workshops this Spring. "Integrating Augmentative Communication Technology into the Classroom" is scheduled for April 12, 1995 and "Adaptive Play, Augmentative Communication & Active Participation: An Inter-Disciplinary Approach" for May 4, 1995. For more details and workshop information, please see the center calendar insert. Your Chance to Advise the President! The National Council on Disability (NCD) has been appointed by Congress to monitor ADA implementation and must regularly report to the President and Congress on the ADA's progress. As the Fifth Anniversary of the ADA approaches, NCD is collecting information on how truly effective the law has been. They would like to hear your personal stories as to the law's impact on your life and are particularly interested in hearing about varying types of successes and the methods you used to achieve those successes. These stories could be about your own personal experiences, those of your employer, or something related to changes in the community. If you have personal experiences to share or would like to contribute input that might affect disability policy, send your stories to: National Council on Disability 1331 F Street, NW, Suite 1050 Washington, DC 20004-1107 Phone: (202)272-2004 TDD: (202)272-2074 Fax: (202)272-2022 New A.D.D. Support Network Formed A series of meetings to discuss Attention Deficit Disorder issues among young adults is being supported in part by a grant from the National Science Foundation to the Applied Science & Engineering Labs. The meetings are not therapy, not lectures, and not advice-but a chance for young adults with ADD to share experiences and ideas or just listen to the concerns of other young adults. Meetings are scheduled for March 10 and April 28 at 7:00 pm in Room 116 of Purnell Hall, University of Delaware. For more information, contact Rick & Mary Ellen Foulds @ (302)234-0208 or email Greg Foulds at kluge@brahms.udel.edu. The AT Messenger is published bi-monthly by the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative. Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative Applied Science & Engineering Laboratories University of Delaware/A.I. duPont Institute P.O. Box 269, 1600 Rockland Rd. Wilmington, DE 19899 Phone: (302)651-6790 TDD: (302)651-6794 FAX: (302)651-6793 Beth Mineo, Director Ron Sibert, Funding Specialist Bob Piech, Consumer Activities Coordinator Donna Bacon, Education & Training Coordinator Sonja Simowitz, Staff Assistant Gregg Stum, Research Programmer DATI is funded by the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research of the U.S. Department of Education, Grant #H224A10005. This publication does not necessarily reflect the position or policy of NIDRR/ED, and no official endorsement of the materials should be inferred. The University of Delaware is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, age, national origin, marital status or disability in conformity with applicable laws