The AT Messenger ....bringing technology to you Published by the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative (DATI) Vol. 4, Issue 2 Mar/Apr 1996 New Castle County Assistive Technology Resource Center Moves! On March 1, the management of the New Castle County Assistive Technology Resource Center transferred from Delaware Elwyn to Easter Seal Society of Del-Mar, Inc., located at 61 Corporate Circle, New Castle Corporate Commons. The move is a result of a decision made by Delaware Elwyn after careful planning regarding its future and assistive technology services. "We are proud to have been a leader in the establishment of assistive technology services in New Castle County, but after carefully reviewing our agency's future plans and that of the ATRC, we came to the conclusion that Easter Seals, because of the focus of their extensive clinical outpatient services, would provide a better fit for the center in the future," says Cathie Field Lloyd, Executive Director of Delaware Elwyn. According to Lloyd, Delaware Elwyn, like many other non-profit organizations, has been reviewing its services in anticipation of both leaner funding and the need for more positive collaborations among agencies in the future. The fact that Easter Seals already operates the assistive technology resource centers in Sussex and Kent counties made it a logical home for the New Castle County center. Federal funding for the Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative (DATI) will be reduced gradually over the next six years. The intent of the legislation is that the community be able to absorb the services eventually with no further assistance from the federal government. Delaware Elwyn, DATI, and Easter Seals are cooperatively planning for this eventuality. All three organizations embrace the decision as a positive, proactive step toward preparing for the future. Beth Mineo, Director of the DATI, hailed Delaware Elwyn's decision as progressive. "When Delaware Elwyn approached me to ask if they could discuss this possibility with Easter Seals, I was pleased to see their forward thinking and their concern for the future of services in Delaware. They have done an excellent job and I look forward to their continued collaboration with DATI." In addition, Delaware Elwyn plans to transfer a related service to Easter Seals. Delaware Elwyn's mobile technology unit, which provides in-home assessments for environmental controls and work place technology assessments, will be added to the list of assistive technology services offered by Easter Seal on April 1. The new phone numbers for the center are: 328-ATRC (2872), 328-2905 (TDD), and 328-2796 (fax). Elwyn and Easter Seals are working closely together to make the transition as smooth as possible. If you have any questions regarding services during the transition, please call Joe Cipolla at 657-5589 or Bill Adami at 324-4444. NEAT Kick-off! The NEAT (Network for Education and Assistive Technology) Project had its official kick-off on Tuesday, February 13. University of Delaware President David P. Roselle announced the grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce at a news conference and demonstration of assistive technology held at Buena Vista. "Technology is such an important and integral part of our everyday lives," Roselle said. "That is why this grant is so special, because it helps DATI expand upon its ongoing efforts to insure access for persons with disabilities to the specialized technology that can improve the quality of their educations and their lives and allow them to participate fully in their schools and communities." Calling the project "a good collaboration" with the University, the Department of Public Instruction, and the Office of Information Systems in the state, Delaware Governor Thomas R. Carper likened it to a stand of sequoia trees. These trees, which live to be about a thousand years old, have shallow roots. They survive the elements because each sequoia's roots are intertwined with the roots of the neighboring sequoias. "In the end, sequoia trees are able to survive and thrive because they hold one another up; they support one another," Carper said. "And in the end, that's what we ought to be about, and because of this program we are." "Today's technology allows our children to explore information and learn in ways that were inconceivable 10 years ago," NEAT project co-director Beth Mineo said. "But there's a danger here, too. The very thing that is carrying the majority of our children into the future may send a segment of our student population hurtling back into the past-a past of segregation and limited opportunity-a past we've worked very hard to eradicate here in Delaware," she said. Under the grant, Mineo explained, NEAT will conduct training seminars over a 16-month period for educators from each of the state's school districts. Each district superintendent selected one or more individuals to participate in the Assistive Technology Specialist training. They will learn how to use assistive technology to help children with any sort of disability and, in turn, will train others in their schools. The grant also provides funds so that district designees will receive laptop computers. The laptop computers, with Internet access, will mean that program participants can maintain their connections with each other across the state, as well as with the NEAT staff and others nationally. "The training and laptop computers are integral to the program," according to Mineo. "The grant lasts for 18 months. In that time, we can jumpstart the initiative, but it is the teachers who will have to sustain it. The laptops will keep the trainers working together and serving as resources for one another." "We also plan to put some accessible worksites in schools throughout Delaware to help students with disabilities work right alongside their peers who don't have disabilities," Mineo said. "Several schools throughout the state will be selected to partner with NEAT in offering living demonstrations of equal access to computer-based experiences," she said. "One of the selection criteria that will be used in making these awards will be the number of students with disabilities who benefit directly from the collaboration. We also want to showcase a range of computer uses, from independent Internet exploration to networking to science, math, and literacy instruction." Mineo noted that a DATI survey of educators throughout Delaware revealed some disturbing findings. "For example, most of our respondents knew very little about assistive technology...More than half the respondents cited insufficient information as the main reason that children were not getting access to the devices and services that they needed... "If you want to impact an entire system, in this case the education system, you need to address the needs of all stakeholders," Mineo said. "In other words, to make meaningful changes that will outlast the 18-month duration of this project, we need to make sure that our activities involve educators, students and families. The NEAT project will increase awareness within all these groups of the powerful and positive impact that assistive technology can have on educational opportunity." This grant is part of the Telecommunications and Information Infrastructure Assistance Program (TIIAP), administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). TIIAP is a highly competitive, merit-based grant program that provides seed money for innovative, practical technology projects throughout the U.S. It provides matching grants to nonprofit organizations to fund projects that improve the quality of and the public's access to education, health care, government services and economic development. In addressing the 117 grant recipients last fall, Vice President Al Gore said: "I want to congratulate you all on the hard work, innovative thinking and creative partnerships you have formed with your communities to expand the National Information Infrastructure and bring information and technology to more people across the country. In partnership with the NTIA, you will bring forth new educational opportunities, improved health-care services, high-tech job training and other critical services to your communities nationwide." Jefferson Writes on Independence Living with a disability is often trying and frustrating, but in no way is it a life sentence of uselessness. Especially now that assistive technology has made it way into our lives. For me, that technology came in the form of a voice activated computer and an environmental control unit (ECU). The computer, a laptop equipped with DragonDictate and Vocal-eyes, allows me to pursue a career in free-lance journalism. Using DragonDictate, a software package that translates voice commands into keystrokes, I can now do by mouth what arthritis has taken from my arms, hands, and fingers. For instance, if I wanted to type the word dear, I would simply say "dear" instead of hitting the keys "d e a r". Since I am also blind, I have Vocal-eyes, a voice playback software program, that lets me hear what has been keyed in. For example, when I type in dear, Vocal-eyes says and spells the word dear. Because my career path is journalism, I use WordPerfect, a word processing program. Working with these three programs, I have the ability to write articles like this one independently. In addition to writing, I can run spellcheck, save, and print documents by voice. If I did not have my voice activated computer, I would be dependent on someone to do my writing for me and the chances of obtaining work would be drastically reduced. However, the computer is not the only piece of technology that helps me be less dependent on others. My ECU, a MasterVoice product, provides me the ability to access various devices and appliances by voice. My ECU works on the same principle as the computer except the ECU has to be programmed for specific tasks. Now, when I want to listen to the radio, I just say radio or boombox, depending on what room I'm in, and the ECU turns it on. The television is another appliance that I can control with my ECU. Although unlike the radio, I can adjust the volume and change channels on the television. But, the best features the ECU offers are the door bell intercom and electric door locks. With these components, I have the security to choose who enters my house. Eventually, the computer and printer will be hooked to the ECU, giving me greater independence. By no means has assistive technology made me totally self-sufficient. What it has done, however, is to help me regain some independence that arthritis has stolen, and to let me pursue my goals of becoming a tax supporter rather than a tax dependent. This article was written by John Jefferson, a consumer for Division for the Visually Impaired (DVI), who lives in Lincoln, Delaware. Upon graduating from Delaware Technical & Community College with a degree in Communications Technology with print journalism, John wrote "article upon article". He currently works as a peer counselor in Dover and performs some free-lance writing for local newsletters, newspapers, and magazines in Southern Delaware. His computer, printer, Vocal-Eyes, and DragonDictate were all purchased through DVI in Milford. His environmental control unit (ECU) was purchased through the Independent Living Grant administered by Department of Vocational Rehabilitation. John submitted this article on behalf of the consumers in Kent and Sussex Counties at the request of the ATRC in Kent and Sussex Counties. Tax Deductions for People with Disabilities It's that time of year again. The time when our hearts and minds turn to taxes...or better yet, deductions. Did you know that many medical and dental costs are deductible? You can only deduct the amount of medical and dental expenses that is more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income that insurance does not reimburse. Adjusted gross income is salary plus other income (i.e., alimony, Social Security benefits) minus certain deductions such as IRAs and alimony paid. This means that if your adjusted gross income is $20,000, then 7.5% would be $1,500. If your medical expenses after insurance were $5,000, you could deduct $3,500 in expenses, the difference between the 7.5% limit and what the taxpayer spent. Of course, this is the IRS. There are a few rules to follow before considering these deductions. You must figure your deductions using Schedule A, Form 1040. Medical expenses that an insurance company or other sources paid do not count. However, you can claim the amount you paid if the insurance company did not pay 100% of the item or procedure. This applies whether they made the payments directly to you, to the patient, or to the service provider. The list below highlights eligible deductible expenses: * Ambulance service * Braille books and magazines * Capital expenses including: o ramps o widening doorways o modifying hallways o grab bars o lowering kitchen cabinets o lifts o modifying door handles * Modifications to cars/vans * Crutches * Diapers (prescribed) * Glasses and contacts * Guide dogs (and their care) * Hearing aids and batteries * Hospital services * Health insurance premiums * Tuition to special schools * Prescription medicines * Nursing home services * Prosthesis * Special phones * Closed captioners * Therapy * Wheelchairs These are just some items that are deductible medical expenses. Be aware that unless your itemized deductions, including those for medical expenses, are more than the standard deduction ($3,900 for single, $6,550 for couples filing jointly, $5,750 for head of household and $3,275 for married filing separately) it may not be worth the time and energy to itemize. Check out IRS Publication 502 "Medical and Dental Expenses" for a complete listing of deductible expenses. TAXES, PART DEUX The Earned Income Credit (EIC) and the Child and Dependent Care Credit are other tax benefits available for families of children with disabilities. EIC is a special credit available to taxpayers with earned income less than $24,396 in 1995 who have a "qualifying child" in their home (or income less than $26,673 with two or more "qualifying children"). A qualifying child is a biological child, adopted child, stepchild, grandchild or eligible foster child who is under age 19, or 24 if a full time student. An individual may be a qualifying child at any age if disabled. The qualifying child must have lived with you for more than half of 1995 (the entire year for an eligible foster child). If you qualify for EIC benefits, you must file form 1040 or 1040A and Schedule EIC. You may file under any status except "married filing separate." Taxpayers can have a maximum credit of $3,110. However, the average credit is about $1,000. Single people or couples without children who earned less $9,230 and are at least 25 but under 65 can also qualify for EIC. You may file form 1040EZ along with Schedule EIC. The maximum credit is $314. The Child and Dependent Care Credit is a non-refundable credit from (depending on income) 20 to 30% of the cost of day-care for a dependent. A dependent is any child under the age of 13 or any person with a disability of any age whom can be claimed as a dependent. Tax payers can claim up to $2,400 in costs for one dependent and $4,800 for two or more dependents. Only parents who work or were looking for work qualify for this credit. Expenses for preschool and after school programs can qualify for the credit plus the costs associated with home care for your child, unless the tax payer gets reimbursed by a social services agency. Summer day camp expenses also qualify, but the IRS excludes overnight camp expenses. To get the credit you must file for 2441 with your form 1040, identify the care giver and provide his or her Social Security number or Employer Identification Number. For more information on the EIC and the Child and Dependent Care Credit check out IRS Publications 596 and 503. As with any tax related information, please be sure to verify this information with a tax expert. As we all know, the rules can be very complicated, and working with someone who knows the rules is best. Reprinted with permission from "TECHTALK", a publication of the Illinois Assistive Technology Project, Jan/Feb 1996. Annual Conference Presentations Sought Plans are well underway already for the 1996 DATI Annual Conference, to be held on Wednesday, September 25, 1996 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 workshop sessions on various AT-related topics. The DATI Training Activities Committee is currently soliciting proposals for presentations to be made during these 1-1/4 hour workshop sessions. Presentations may address any assistive technology issues. 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 Committee 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. Proposals are due by May 1, 1996. Complete the form on the next page and return it to the address below. For further information, contact Sonja Simowitz via the following phone numbers: DATI Training Activities Committee Applied Science & Engineering Labs University of DE/A.I. duPont Institute 1600 Rockland Road, P.O. Box 269 Wilmington, DE 19899-0269 Phone: 800-870-DATI or (302)651-6790; (302)651-6794 TDD (302)651-6793 (Fax) We look forward to your ideas and your help in planning this year's conference! Financing Assistive Technology The New Delaware Medicaid Managed Care System Ron Sibert, DATI Funding Specialist The Delaware Medical Assistance Program (DMAP) is the official name of our state Medicaid program. DMAP, which operates out of Delaware's Department of Health & Social Services (DHSS), recently launched its new Medicaid managed care (HMO-type) health insurance program called the Diamond State Health Plan (DSHP). In theory, all of the services that had been available to Medicaid beneficiaries under the old program are still covered, but the process of accessing those services is now very different. Probably the most obvious change is that the DSHP services are provided by subcontractors, currently four managed care organizations (MCOs). These agencies have been employed by the State/DMAP to provide Medicaid managed care services; a list of MCOs and their contact information can be found at the end of this article. Anticipating the inevitable confusion about enrollment and service access, the State has also contracted with an agency to provide coordination and support services. This agency is called a Health Benefits Manager (HBM). Electronic Data Systems (EDS) is Delaware's current provider of HBM services (1-800-996-9969). These services include client outreach, assisting beneficiaries with MCO selection and enrollment, and resolving problems with claims on the client's behalf. The latter service is part of a new grievance resolution process discussed in more detail below. There have also been some changes in Medicaid program and service eligibility. All regular/"categorically eligible" Medicaid beneficiaries are required to enroll in the DSHP. However, certain groups are NOT required to enroll. Those exempt groups include: * Medicaid recipients in long term care institutions (e.g., nursing homes, ICF/MRs, & ICF/IMDs) * Those who are eligible for home and community-based services through Medicaid Waivers for people who are elderly, disabled, have AIDS/HIV, or mental retardation * Medicaid recipients who also have Medicare * Medicaid eligibles who have other accessible managed care insurance. Covered services (including equipment) for these exempt groups are to be reimbursed on a "fee for service" basis, which just means that for the exempt groups, claims will be processed the same as they've always been. One frequently cited benefit of the new system is that a significant number of people who were previously uninsured and not eligible for Medicaid benefits are now qualified. In DMAP's general policy, this newly eligible group is called "the expanded population," and its members qualify for Medicaid benefits at a slightly higher income level compared to the traditional group. However, the state-authorized benefits packages for the two groups are not the same. The categorically eligible group's coverage is slightly more comprehensive. Even so, both groups (that is the expanded population, and all nonexempt categorically eligible beneficiaries) MUST enroll in DSHP and select an MCO. Careful selection of a good compatible MCO is also important; not only because one's physician(s) must be a member(s) of the MCO, but because the benefits packages provided by the individual MCOs are not necessarily identical. Some, for example, may offer services not required by the State (DHSS) in the Medicaid subcontract. I would advise prospective applicants to call the MCOs to do some pre-enrollment comparison shopping before and/or after contacting the HBM. Once a person enrolls with an MCO, s/he is generally required to stay for at least one year. Switching to another plan is only permitted once per year during the open enrollment period. However, an MCO may "disenroll" or drop a person from the plan for "cause." The MCO has the right, for instance, to disenroll a member who habitually uses emergency room services instead of going to an MCO-authorized facility. If disenrolled, the person is still not allowed to leave the DSHP program, but would have to work with the HBM to select and enroll in another managed care plan. Assistive technology devices are still generally covered as durable medical equipment (DME), but They are now provided through the MCOs. However, the DME providership picture is a bit different. Each MCO maintains a list of its preferred/contracted equipment suppliers. They will only furnish equipment through suppliers with which they have a relationship. However, there is also some flexibility. Each of the MCOs has a mechanism for handling "unusual" equipment claims. For instance, if the device is judged to be a covered item, MCO administrators have expressed a willingness to recruit the suppliers of such equipment to be included on their list of preferred suppliers. Even so, we can probably expect to see at least a few delays and incorrect denials until the MCOs have progressed further along the learning curve (although I've recently been made aware of two MCO-approved claims for augmentative communication devices!). In any case, a denial should not be taken as the final word. Instead, it should be treated merely as a request for additional information, e.g., from the prescribing physician and/or other involved health care professionals. Denied claims are quite often reversed on appeal, which brings me to yet another set of changes in the system-the new grievance procedure. For DSHP Medicaid beneficiaries, the complaint/appeal process starts with the HBM. Recall that the HBM is responsible for handling disputes between the beneficiary and the MCO; that includes equipment claim denials and coverage disputes. DMAP, however, still monitors MCO operations and provides some level of oversight. To illustrate, let's say that the MCO and HBM fail to resolve an equipment claim denial, and the device in question has customarily been covered as DME under the Medicaid state plan. Let's also assume that the MCO has never encountered a claim for this type of equipment, does not consider it DME, and refuses to provide it. In this case, DMAP would either intercede and compel the MCO to provide the equipment, or provide the equipment itself as a fee for service claim. Of course, it is possible for DMAP to deny the claim as well. However, the beneficiary is still entitled to due process (appeal, fair hearing, administrative law judge, etc.) protections under the law, and may exercise those if necessary. Based on my discussions with MCO and DMAP administrators, it appears likely that such disputes will be resolvable at the first (MCO/HBM) level. Delaware's MCOs and their service areas are: AMERIHEALTH FIRST Serving Kent, Sussex, and New Castle Counties Customer Service:1-800-573-4100 Provider Services: (302) 777-6400, ext. 0956 Administration: (215) 241-3376 DELAWARE CARE Serving Kent, Sussex, and New Castle Counties Customer Service: 1-800-713-5095 Administration: (302) 576-8200 FIRST STATE HEALTH CARE Serving New Castle County Customer Service: (302) 576-7600 Administration: (302) 576-7605 BLUE CROSS & BLUE SHIELD OF DELAWARE Serving Kent & Sussex Counties Customer Service: 1-800-297-6603 Administration: (302) 421-3293 Three-Ring Binder Release Lever Arthritis can turn many simple daily tasks that we take for granted into impossibilities. The disease is not just limited to the elderly. Such was the case with a customer, a clerical professional, who was in her early twenties. She had recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and was already having difficulty performing many of the routine tasks associated with her job. One such task was the manipulation of the release tabs on three-ring binders to open the rings. She used numerous binders as a means of record storage. Included in a comprehensive package of assistive technology were Ring Binder Levers developed through the Center for Rehabilitation Technology at Georgia Tech (CRT/GT) for the DRS Technology Access Program. The basic concept of the Ring Binder Levers is to increase the mechanical advantage of the customer by lengthening the lever arm of the ring binder release tab. Thus, less force had to be applied to cause the binder rings to release. In addition, the levers had a large surface area which the customer could simply push against with her fists or palms. Pressing with the palm reduces mechanical loading on the thumb and finger joints and reduces exacerbation of inflammation and pain. One of the rounded edges of the lever even had a notch which could be used to pop the tab on a soda can. The Ring Binder Levers were a combined effort of four people: the customer, Riley Hawkins (supervisor of the Design Team at CRT/GT), an Industrial Design student, Robert Lewis, and me. The levers are milled from aluminum block with a D-shaped slot in the end sized to accommodate the majority of ring binders. The padding was cut from a mouse pad and attached with adhesive. Note that Robert pursued an aesthetic design, which was important to the customer. A simpler-though less attractive-fabrication method could be used to reduce fabrication cost and time. Based on an article by Brent Williams, ME,BME appearing in "VoRtechs", Fall 1995 and presented here with permission from that publication. AbleNet Introduces True FriendsTM Computer Program For Children With Disabilities rue Friends, a new coloring book emulation program designed by Ablenet for children ages 3 to 8, features engaging animal characters portraying familiar childhood experiences. The computer program is PC-compatible for DOS and includes easy-to-follow instructions. The program can be played by one person using a switch, or by two people alternating turns between a switch and the keyboard. "Our goal was to create an activity that encourages interaction for everyone," said Peggy Locke, Ph.D., Director of Education Services. "We believe the True Friends program is also a good way to introduce diversity to young children. The animal characters originate from different countries, some are boys and some are girls, and two of the characters have disabilities." The True Friends program includes an audio option with sounds ranging from simple musical notes accompanying the pictures and user actions, to children's voices exclaiming affirmations about friendship and words of celebration for the user's participation. The computer program can be personalized to suit a child through a variety of selections in the Options Menu. A PC Switch Interface that can connect one to four switches for the operation of the software is sold separately by AbleNet. AbleNet is a Minnesota company that designs and markets simple, affordable and durable assistive devices and educational services that expand activities and achievements for persons with disabilities. For more information on the True Friends software program, or to order, call AbleNet at 1-800-322-0956 or 612-379-0956. SHHH and Johns Hopkins Launch Nationwide Telecoil Awareness Project Self Help for Hard of Hearing People, Inc. a leading national consumer organization for people with hearing loss, in collaboration with the Johns Hopkins Center for Hearing and Balance, has initiated a National Telecoil Awareness Project. Funded by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, the National Institute of Health, the purpose of the project is to increase awareness and understanding of the benefits of telecoils in hearing aids. Most consumers do not understand why they should include a telecoil in their hearing aid purchase. Consequently fewer than 30 percent of all hearing aids purchased in the United States have a telecoil included. As consumers who strive to make the maximum use of technology, SHHH members know that a telecoil has a dramatic impact on a hearing aid user's functionability on the telephone. Further, telecoils allow hearing aid wearers to access assistive listening systems which enable them to get more mileage and performance out of their hearing aid by overcoming distance or background noise barriers in a variety of situations like classrooms, movies, theaters, lectures, courtrooms, or even while listening to TV. The SHHH/John Hopkins project will result in the development of a practical video for consumers about telecoils. The video will be used by physicians, audiologists, and hearing aid specialists at the time that a consumer is considering purchasing hearing aids for the first time or replacing existing hearing aid(s). Written guidance materials about telecoils will also be produced. The video will be completed in time for the SHHH National Convention in Orlando, Florida, June 21-24, 1996. SHHH and John Hopkins will be assisted in this project by professional organizations in the field of hearing care. The American Academy of Audiology, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Inc., the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, and the International Hearing Society have all designated representatives to serve on an advisory committee, to provide input on the video content, and to assist with promoting use of the video by hearing care professionals. The Hearing Industries Association, representing the major manufacturers of hearing aids, will also advise on the project. SHHH will mobilize its extensive network of chapters and groups across the United States to disseminate the video to local hearing aid dispensers. For more info call 301-657-2248 (V) 2249 (TT). Other Activities C-SUN's Eleventh Annual, International Conference, "Technology and Persons with Disabilities." March 19-23, 1996, Los Angeles Airport Marriott and Los Angeles Airport Hilton Hotels - For additional information call (818)885-2578 V/TDD/Message;(818)885-4929 Fax; Email: LTM@CSUN.EDU. Computer Technology for Individuals With Disabilities: Choosing The Appropriate Equipment To Maximize Function, March 29 & 30, 1996, Kluge Children Rehab & Research Center, Charlottesville, VA-This seminar is designed for rehabilitation and education professionals who want to develop or expand their knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the utilization of computer technology by individuals with disabilities. The two-day seminar will present principles of assessment and intervention. For more information call (804) 982-5313 and reference course #CE96-734. Supporting Children with Medical, Mobility, and Social Needs: Using Today's and Tomorrow's Technology, April 19, 1996, A.I. duPont Institute, Wilmington, Delaware. For additional information contact the Medical Education Office for a brochure at (302) 651-6750. New Castle County ATRC Workshops For more details or registration information, call the New Castle ATRC at 328-ATRC (Voice), 328-2905 (TDD), or 328-2796 (FAX). AT and the Workplace - Attendees at this workshop will learn the many ways in which the workplace can be made accessible for people with disabilities. Equipment demonstrations will range from an electric stapler to a voice activated computer. Seating, ergonomics, and prevention of repetitive strain injuries will also be discussed. DigiVoxTM Set-Up -This is an introductory course on basic DigiVoxTM programming and operation. Participants will become familiar with the DigiVoxTM hardware and software, learn how to program the DigiVoxTM, create DigiVoxTM overlays and become familiar with DigiVoxTM selection method options. Introduction to AAC - This workshop will review what is involved in completing an AAC evaluation for individuals who are nonspeaking. Participants will gain information about low tech and high tech communication devices such as the Say-It-All, Macaw, Voice 160, DynaVoxTM, and System 2000. One case study will be presented. Overview of Assistive Technology - This workshop will introduce eight areas of assistive technology with equipment demonstrations in aids for daily living (ADL) technology, AAC, seating and mobility, environmental control, assistive listening, aids for low vision, computer access, and adapted toys. The importance of high tech and low tech will be discussed. Sign Language and Assistive Listening Devices - This workshop will provide training on the formation of 250-300 basic signs as well as an overview of amplification and alerting devices used in the home, school or workplace. Participants will also be introduced to augmentative and alternative communication systems available through the ATRC. Surfing the Net - This workshop will introduce consumers to the Internet. Participants will become familiar with the World Wide Web, Usernet News groups, Gopher, File Transfer Protocol (FTP) and Internet E-mail. This workshop will offer a hands on opportunity and will be limited to 10 people. SC1000 with Tongue Touch Keypad - Kymberly Bashaw, Product Marketing Specialist will help participants learn details on how nine pressure sensitive keys are activated by tongue movement inside the mouth to provide rapid access to an extensive range of electromechanical devices. Kent County ATRC Workshops For more details or registration information, call the Kent County ATRC at 739-6885 (Voice), 739-6886 (TDD), or 739-6887 (FAX). Augmentative Communication: Everything that Talks - One of the most time consuming and difficult aspects of augmentative communication is vocabulary development. This workshop will outline considerations for vocabulary development using actual cases. Participants will be given the opportunity to program a sample abbreviated vocabulary into one of several electronic communication devices. Devices will include the Macaw, Dynavox, System 2000, and Say-It-All. Seating, Positioning, and Wheeled Mobility - to be held at the Delaware Tech Terry Campus, Room 407-A. The presenters bring a wide range of expertise to this informative workshop. Topics will include the importance of wheeled mobility and proper seating and positioning system, types of mobility from manual wheelchairs to scooters, types of seating systems and their components, steps involved in evaluating a client for a wheelchair and seating systems, the ordering process and funding, safety and maintenance of wheelchairs, and client demonstration with a seating simulator. Sussex County ATRC Workshops For more details or registration information, call the Sussex Country ATRC at 856-7946 (Voice), 856-6714 (Voice or TDD), or 856-6990 (FAX). Computer Access - Come and learn about all the options in using the standard keyboard and the mouse that are available. This workshop will demonstrate that people of all abilities can use the computer. Come and familiarize yourself with the adaptive technologies available. Disabilities & AT - Attendees of this workshop will learn more about some impairments associated with a variety of disabilities (cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, CVA) and their characteristics. Topics include: low-cost and no-cost modifications to meet ADA standards, equipment demonstrations for independence, and recognizing the needs for more specialized therapeutic intervention. Early Intervention and Adapted Toys - See the latest in software for early exploration, motor training, and evaluation and education for very young children (birth to 3 years old). Learn about different ways young children can use the computer. Participants will adapt a battery operated toy for use with a switch, and make their own switch as well. Everyone will leave with the toys and switches that they adapt as well as a variety of catalogs and resources. Fee $13 per person. Non-Delaware residents $33 per person. Introduction to AAC - This workshop will review what is involved in completing an AAC evaluation for individuals who are nonspeaking. Participants will gain information about low tech and high tech communication devices such as the Say-It-All, Macaw, Voice 160, DynaVox TM, and System 2000. One case study will be presented. Effective March 1, Delaware non-residents will be charged a fee of $20 (unless otherwise indicated) to attend DATI training activities. ### To contact DATI's Central Site office or the ATRC closest to you... Call 1-800-870-DATI Press #1 for English or Press #2 for Spanish then press... #3 for the Central Site office or #4 for the New Castle County ATRC or #5 for the Kent County ATRC or #6 for the Sussex County ATRC TDD callers-If you do not press #1 or 2 your call will be answered on a TDD line by someone at the Central Site office.