What are assistive technologies?
The Technology Related Assistance to Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 described an assistive technology device as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."
Assistive technologies can be "high tech" and "low tech:" from canes and lever doorknobs to voice recognition software and augmentative communication devices (speech generating devices).
Mobility
Chronic illness can result in physical disability. People who have a chronic illness may deal with symptoms such as pain or muscle degeneration. Some of these individuals may need assistance with mobility. Some mobility aids include:
- Wheelchairs
- Walkers
- Crutches
- Canes
- Prosthetic Devices
Mobility varies with each person. Some people with a physical disability may be able to walk with the assistance of a cane or a 
prosthetic. Some people, like those who are quadriplegic, may control their mobility device with their mouth or their head. Examples of assistive technologies that help their users with limited mobility include:
- Mouth stick - a device that allows users to control input (whether that be moving their wheelchair or surfing the web) with a stick they manipulate with their mouth.
- Head wand - a device similar to a mouth stick, but users control input with their head instead of their mouth
Mobile Applications
- BlueStar Diabetes ManagerBlueStar can help individuals manage their Type 2 diabetes. It is prescribed by your healthcare professional and allows you to track your symptoms, food, and medical information. It can produce reports that you can share with your healthcare provider.
- CDC Mobile AppThe CDC has recently released a new version of their mobile app for iOS and Android. It includes videos, podcasts, journals, and blogs, as well as important public health information 24/7.
- HeadspaceChronic illness often causes stress, depression, and anxiety. The Headspace application can help reduce anxiety and stress and improve well-being by guiding users through meditation sessions.
- Manage My PainOn Manage My Pain on iOS and Android, you can make daily records of how you're feeling, add medications to your profile, and track how you’re doing over time with graphs and charts. Includes free and paid options (recurring fee)
Employees with a Physical Disability
- Accommodation Information by Disability: A to ZThe Job Accommodation Center provides guidance on workplace accommodations and disability employment issues. This page lists resources for effective accommodations for many disabilities.
Finding Assistive Technology
- EduTopia: Assistive TechnologyDiscover websites, blog posts, articles, and videos related to understanding, selecting, and assessing assistive technology.