At Ability KC, we help people with disabilities build independence. Our services include medical rehabilitation, job support and an inclusive therapeutic preschool. Technology is an important part of what we do. It helps people move, communicate and live more independently. The World Health Organization estimates that 3.5 billion people will need assistive technology by 2050. As part of our comprehensive campaign, we are working to bring more technology to the people we serve. In this post, we’ll explain the tools we use and how they might make your life easier.
How does Ability KC use assistive technology for people with disabilities?
We use many types of technology to help people in different ways. Some tools help with communication. Others make it easier to move, work or do everyday tasks. Here are some of the main kinds of technology we use:
- Communication tools — Some people have trouble speaking because of a medical condition or injury. We provide tools that help them share their thoughts and connect with others. These include augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). AAC involves forms of communication that match an individual’s unique needs. Some people use picture boards, while others use special devices that turn text into speech. We also use message banking. This allows people to record their own voice in case they lose the ability to speak later. They can use their recorded words in the future to continue talking in their own voice.
- Adaptive tools — Computers and phones play increasingly important roles in daily life. However, using these devices can be challenging for some people. At Ability KC, we provide special tools to make technology easier to use. These tools range from eye-tracking software to adaptive keyboards. Eye-tracking software lets people control a computer with their eyes. Adaptive keyboards have larger keys or different layouts to help with typing. Using these tools, people with disabilities can work, learn, and stay connected with friends and family.
- Wearable technology — Wearable devices often help people during therapy. They can track movement and give real-time feedback to improve recovery. One example of wearable technology is exoskeletons. An exoskeleton might be used in spinal cord injury rehabilitation and other situations where people need mobility support. Exoskeletons function to help people practice walking again.
- Virtual platforms — Virtual tools tend to improve accessibility. At Ability KC, we offer a virtual “Build Your Plan” tool. This tool can help you build the treatment plan you want. When you start treatment, your care team will work with you to make sure your individual needs are met.
How does technology help with outpatient medical rehabilitation?
Technology often plays a big role in helping people recover from injuries, illnesses or disabilities during outpatient medical rehabilitation. Outpatient rehabilitation allows individuals to receive therapy and support while continuing to live at home. Using the right technology can speed up recovery, improve independence and help people regain lost abilities.
Here are some key ways technology supports outpatient medical rehabilitation:
- Improving mobility — People recovering from strokes, spinal cord injuries or orthopedic surgeries often have limited mobility. Technology can help them regain mobility and strength. Exoskeletons, for example, can help people with disabilities or serious injuries walk.
- Enabling communication — Some conditions can make it difficult for people to speak or understand language. Conditions that might impact communication abilities include strokes and traumatic brain injuries. Technology can help by providing alternative means of communication. These might include picture-based communication tools and text-to-speech software.
- Increasing independence — Outpatient medical rehabilitation often includes helping people regain independence in their daily activities. Technology can play a big role in this by helping people take care of daily tasks without relying on constant assistance from others.
Find out how Ability KC can help you
At Ability KC, we believe technology can open new doors for people with disabilities. With your help, we can bring even more life-changing tools to our community. Your support can help our patients access more technology. It can also enable us to expand our community programs. You can donate to help us continue our mission.
At Ability KC, we help children, adults and seniors regain their abilities after serious injuries or illnesses. Our outpatient rehabilitation programs are designed to meet each person’s unique needs. Our approach combines advanced therapies with compassionate care. We work with each patient to create a therapy plan that is effective and built for real-life success.
Ability KC is a designated Comprehensive Outpatient Rehabilitation Facility (CORF). We also have a Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) accreditation. Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.