Dave Lam, Technology Lending Center Coordinator, demonstrates an assistive technology communication device, one of several available through the Technology Lending Center, a “lending library” that allows people with all disabilities to try out equipment before they purchase it.
Most of us are familiar with our local public library. Chances are you borrowed books with colorful pictures, eagerly anticipating an enjoyable bedtime story. Since the day Benjamin Franklin conceived the idea, the local public library has been a central point of each community. For people with disabilities throughout New Jersey, there is another important community resource: the Technology Lending Center at Advancing Opportunities’ headquarters in Ewing. Individuals with all disabilities and their families can borrow an assistive technology (AT) device for four or six weeks to try it out. The idea is to try out different types of AT equipment for one’s individual needs and goals, says David Lam, Technology Lending Center Coordinator. Individuals can then find out whether the device works well before making a substantial investment. The Technology Lending Center is the largest AT lending library in the state.
Dave joined Advancing Opportunities four years ago; he draws on his background in community outreach and organizing, along with his hobbies of computers and technology, in managing the Technology Lending Center. He learned a great deal about assistive technology for people with all disabilities from Fred Tchang, Director of Assistive Technology Services.
There’s Nothing Like Success
The Technology Lending Center, located at the Ewing headquarters of Advancing Opportunities, offers a large variety of assistive technology devices people can borrow to try out before making the investment.
As the objective of the Technology Lending Center is to enable individuals to determine whether a piece of AT equipment will meet their needs, Dave has seen many success stories. When he and some office staff first saw the LiftWare spoon, they were skeptical. After all, why would someone spend almost $200 on a spoon that stabilizes itself when it is held at various angles? (Separate attachments with forks and other tools are available at additional costs.) However, the very first person who borrowed this piece of high-tech cutlery told Dave that, thanks to the LiftWare spoon, her mother (with Parkinson’s disease) was able to eat independently for the first time in some 20 years. Upon returning the device, she ended up purchasing one of her own.
Computer access is important to nearly everyone, both for work and play. For some people, additional technology is needed to gain use of a computer. And, sometimes, that computer is very small—a smartphone. Dave worked with a man whose physical movement was limited to turning his head and bending one finger. With special switches, the man was able to make calls and take pictures. Says Dave, “It’s tremendously rewarding that all the technology we take for granted, through AT, individuals with a disability can gain the same access.”
A Huge Selection for Every Need, Every Disability
The Technology Lending Center offers an array of devices, enabling people with all disabilities to gain access to a specific task. Users can explore and read about the assistive technology we have available, from the ABC Keyboard to the Zephyr Electric Stapler… and everything in between.
Children as young as three want to play with electronic toys. For children with physical disabilities, various switches with large buttons allow them to activate the toy. “They’re playing with the toy like any other kid their age,” says Dave.
Getting the Word Out
Some borrowers are referrals from the Assistive Technology Center. Others learn about the service through word of mouth. The Technology Lending Center is known in school districts throughout New Jersey as an invaluable resource that enables students with special needs try out equipment to help them succeed in school. News of the Technology Lending Center has also spread at teacher and parent organization meetings and at events sponsored by the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). Other individuals are referred through the Assistive Technology Center. “I like knowing that AT out there is making an impact on people’s lives,” says Dave.
Not all assistive technology is hi-tech! Thanks to this jellybean switch, a child with a physical disability can play with his or her favorite toy, like any other child.
