All About Illinois Assistive Technology Program

Kathleen Laurin, PhD, Director of Program Development, Illinois Assistive Technology Program

The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) is a nonprofit organization that has been providing Assistive Technology (AT) services throughout the state for 35 years. IATP supports the availability of assistive technology (AT) devices and services for people of all ages with disabilities and other health conditions so that they can enhance their independence and participation in all aspects of life. This is achieved through implementation of different programs and services and through collaborative efforts with other agencies and organizations. This article provides a brief overview of different types of assistive technology and the different IATP programs that can be most helpful for those with ALS.

Assistive Technology (AT) was legislatively defined in the Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988 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.” In other words, assistive technologies are tools that can help maintain, enhance, or compensate for an individual’s ability to perform specific tasks. An item does not necessarily have to be manufactured as an assistive technology device but often becomes one simply by virtue of its application.

There are thousands of AT devices and products ranging from simple to complex. Determining what might best meet your needs without adequate information can be a confusing process. IATP is able to help with that process through various different core programs and/or contracted services. Core services are free of charge and available to Illinois residents of all ages with disabilities and/or health concerns, their family members, friends, and caregivers. The program also works with professional service providers in aging, community living, early childhood, education, employment, health care, veteran’s services, and other social services. Additional AT and disability related services are provided through contracts with federal and state agencies and other entities that may have eligibility requirements.

Due to the progressive nature of ALS, AT device needs and other related accommodations are continually evolving. Gaining awareness and learning about the wide spectrum of options before they are needed can be of great benefit. There are many different categories of AT devices. While everyone’s ALS journey is unique to them, there are some common categories of devices that are most often used. These include mobility-related devices, communication devices, devices that aid in daily living tasks and lifestyle choices, and devices that can help control one’s environment.

IATP’s core programs provide a continuum of services. Contact information is available at the end of this article. You can contact any program directly, but if you are new to IATP services, we suggest the following.

Contact Information and Assistance

Contact IATP to learn about all available programs and services. Based on your needs, we will help identify any programs that may be of benefit to you. This service can also assist you with information on assistive technology products, AT services available through other programs, and acquiring AT from vendors and manufacturers. IATP does not sell any AT devices but does provide an opportunity to learn, see, and trial devices before purchasing from other resources.

Visit theDemonstration Center

Located at 701 North Walnut in Springfield, Illinois, the IATP Demonstration Center includes an accessible kitchen, bedroom, living space, bathroom, and laundry room. There are many AT products located throughout these areas. There are also display areas with a vast array of products including daily living aids, communication devices, computer related devices, options to help with learning, cognition, and memory, vision devices, hearing-related products, recreation items, and adapted toys.

Featured as part of the IATP Demonstration Center, is a five-room interactive Smart Home display that highlights automation and provides hands-on experience with products that allow a user to monitor and control numerous items throughout the home, including security, climate, lighting, appliances, entertainment systems, and self-care options.

Other program areas that can be visited include the IATP Makerspace and the Tech Kitchen program. If you are unable to visit in person, contact the Demonstration Center to arrange a virtual visit.

Request and Schedule a Device Demonstration

Device demonstrations are personal appointments with an assistive technology specialist that provide an opportunity to discuss your needs, learn about potential AT solutions, and explore different AT devices, their features, and possible benefits. The purpose of this guided interactive experience is to help you identify options and make informed decisions as to what will best meet your needs.

Access the IATP Device Loan Program

The device loan program offers an opportunity to borrow a device for six weeks. This short term loan is intended to allow borrowers an opportunity to further explore their options and trial devices in the environments of their choice. Trialing devices before purchasing further supports informed decision making and often helps the user avoid purchases that do not meet their expectations.

The device loan program operates much like a lending library. A borrower creates an account, agrees to the terms of the program, and then can borrow items for a period of six weeks. IATP will ship the item to a physical address within Illinois at no charge, but the borrower is responsible for the return shipping charge. Many items in Demonstration Center are available through the Device Loan program. Some items are unable to be shipped due to size, weight, and/or cost. The program also provides loans to borrowers to serve as backup equipment while waiting for repairs on their own device, to ensure compatibility between the device and the user, and/or to be used by professionals conducting assistive technology evaluations. Contact the program for more information or for help navigating the extensive inventory.

Contact the Device Reuse Program

IATP provides services to help ensure assistive technology in good working condition can be reused and benefit an individual in need. The program provides gently used and new AT and durable medical equipment (DME) to those who can’t afford to purchase new. The recipient may keep the equipment for as long as needed. When it is no longer being used, it is requested that it be returned so that others in need may also benefit from the program.

The statewide need for equipment far exceeds the available supply and therefore the device inventory changes rapidly. Contact the program directly via email or phone for assistance with your Reuse needs. Types of equipment available include:

• Mobility, seating, and positioning (i.e. wheelchairs, walkers, scooters, etc.)
• Daily living devices including personal care
• Vision
• Hearing
• Communication Devices
• Computer and related hardware
• and software
• Home Adaptations
• Vehicle modifications and accessories
• Recreation, sports, and leisure

Reuse Donations

Please consider donating gently used equipment that is no longer beneficial to the user. Equipment donations are assessed for safety, function, cleaned, sanitized, and redistributed to Illinoisans in need who cannot afford to purchase new equipment. New items are also added to the Reuse program
inventory through private individual cash donations and through financial support from other resources.

Explore the IATP Makers Program

If you are unable to find an existing product that meets your needs, explore the Makers program. IATP created this program to expand available options for individuals to acquire the assistive technology they need that might not be commercially available. The program designs and fabricates assistive technology devices using 3D printing, pressure forming, laser cutting, and a variety of other readily available materials and hardware. Fabrication services are available to Illinois residents of all ages with disabilities and/or health related conditions. Visit the iatpmakers.org website to learn more about the program.

Submit the Makers Request Device Form for initiating the custom fabricated device process. If you need assistance or internet access is not available, contact the program through one of IATP’s phone options.

Visit the product library for AT products that are designed and fabricated by the Maker Team and/or are made and graciously donated by Makers in our volunteer network. Items are available to those in need. Donations are requested to cover production costs and shipping but are not required.

Maker Volunteer Opportunities

Wish to become involved with this AT Maker Network? Here’s how…

• Donate printed items that can be provided free of charge to those in need.
• Contribute your time, expertise, and skills to product design ideas and prototype development
• Volunteer to provide related support services that are sometimes needed such as woodworking, metalworking, welding, upholstery, and sewing, etc.

TECH KITCHEN: Plan, Prep, Cook!

The Tech Kitchen Program offers free in-person training for Illinois residents with a disability over the age of fourteen. Trainings are designed to help assist in finding kitchen tools, cooking techniques, and strategies that make cooking at home safer, easier, and less overwhelming. The staff includes a professional chef and occupational therapy staff trained to use assistive technology and techniques to address specific needs. The Tech Kitchen features an accessible home-style kitchen with a variety of tools to enhance independence with meal planning and cooking.

Services through Contracted Partnerships

Illinois Care Connections

The Illinois Department on Aging (IDOA) partners with the Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) to administer the Illinois Care Connections (ICC) program. It is aimed at enabling social connectedness; maintaining health, safety, and wellbeing; and promoting independence of older adults age 60+ living in the community by providing technology and assistive devices. A referral for services
is required.

IDoA partners with other service providers such as Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), AAA-funded entities, Care Coordination Units (CCUs), and Adult Day Service (ADS) providers who can refer adults aged 60+ living in the community to the program using an online referral system. Visit the IDOA to learn more about their programs that may be of help to you at https://ilaging.illinois.gov/programs.html. More information on the ICC program can be found on the IATP website.

Illinois Department of Human Services

The Division of Rehabilitation Services’ Home Services Program (HSP) provides services to individuals with severe disabilities so they can remain in their homes and be as independent as possible. The program serves people with severe disabilities under age 60 who need help with daily living activities in their homes. IATP partners with HSP to provide some of their available services including assistive technology devices and environmental modification evaluations. A referral is required for program participation. For more information visit https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=67182.

Contacting IATP

There are numerous ways to contact IATP. All information can be found on the website at iltech.org/about/contact.

Email: For the fastest reply, use the contact form to submit an email request. If you are unable to use the form, email IATP @ iltech .org.
VOICE LINE: (217) 522-7985
TOLL FREE: (800) 852-5110 (IN-STATE ONLY)
ILLINOIS RELAY SERVICES: Dial 7-1-1

Address:
701 North Walnut St
Springfield, IL 62702