Marie,

There are basically two categories of assistive technology. One is in
physical support, and the other is alternative and augmented communication
(AAT). Don Krebs catelogue is one of the best for physical devices. One
of my students made off with my issue, and I don't have the number, sorry.
These resources include fishing poles that automatically cast and reel in,
adapted golf carts, mobility aides, holders, reachers, etc. Many physical
assistance devices, like magnifying lights, can be purchased at Staples or
stores like that. There are universal cuffs for those with limited fine
motor movement that are easy to sew from a piece of web strap, 2 d-rings,
and some velcro. You can make a playing card holder from a 2x2 12" piece
of pine. I have some patterns and instructions if you are interested.
AAT is an interdisciplinary area of communication system development for
people with expressive aphasia, cerebral palsy, autism, etc. These devices
range from simple icons representing choices to alphabet boards, to talking
computers like the Prentke-Romich Liberator. I have a certificate from the
UAP at Temple University in AAT, so I have some resources and examples of
low-tech stuff I can send you. Prentke Romich has the computers; their
phone number is (800) 262-1984. An international organization, Lekotec,
has assistive technology options for children with disabilities which they
lend to qualified children. They can also assess needs. I did a master's
project on this topic, so I would be glad to help in any way I can. Also, I
have a friend (CTRS) who works for the assistive technology resource office
(can't remember the name of it) at UVA. Her name is Joyce Sharp, and her
e-mail is jll3g@.... Hope this helps.

Gail Ham

--On Thursday, January 23, 2003 7:08 AM -0600 maria <marchtoc@...>
wrote:

> I am interested in assistive technology. - Not sure 'bout what you mean
> by assistive tech - but my idea and hope for discussion and info sharing
> is what devices are out there to help people - for instance with one hand
> to still paint, crochet, sew, embroider, fish and that don't cost 100 or
> 200 and up to secure. I am on a rehab unit that deals mostly with ortho,
> amputees, general debils and stroke folks who sometimes remain post
> stroke with use of one arm only. Catalog recommendations? I have all the
> usual catalogs - Briggs, S&S, maybe I'm missing something. Info sharing
> please! Marie marchtoc@...
>
>
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--
Gail L. Ham
Assistant Professor
School of Kinesiology and Recreation Studies
MSC 2302
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VA 22807
(540) 568-6585
hamgl@...