How Assistive Technology Can Support Independent Living

Finding a good place to live can be challenging these days. It can be even more challenging for people with disabilities who need accessibility accommodations. The lack of available accessible housing affects a person’s independence and sense of autonomy and sometimes forces them to live far from family, friends, or work.

Home modifications, including different types of assistive technology, can increase the amount of housing options available to individuals with disabilities. Unfortunately, barriers, such as obtaining a landlord’s approval, sometimes prevent desired housing from being available. However, numerous types of resources are available.

Types of Assistive Technology for Home Use

For individuals with disabilities, assistive technology (AT) in the home can provide increased independence, enhance safety, and improve overall quality of life. From smart home devices to adaptive tools for daily living, these technologies promote self-sufficiency and reduce the need for constant caregiver support. Some types of AT for the home include:

• Environmental Control Systems. Smart home devices, such as voice-activated assistants like Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant, enable individuals to control lights, appliances, thermostats, and security systems using voice commands or mobile apps. (Check out a story about one apartment complex in Ohio that offers such enhancements for residents with developmental disabilities.)
• Communication Aids. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, such as tablets with specialized communication apps, allow individuals with speech impairments to communicate effectively with family, caregivers, and service providers.
• Safety and Security Devices. Sensors and alarms that detect smoke, gas leaks, or unauthorized entry help individuals with disabilities remain safe at home. Wearable GPS trackers ensure that caregivers can locate individuals if they wander from home.
• Adaptive Daily Living Aids. Tools like smart medication dispensers, automated pill reminders, and adaptive eating utensils support individuals with disabilities in performing daily self-care tasks with more independence.
• Health Monitoring Devices. Remote health monitoring systems track vital signs, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels, alerting caregivers or health care providers if an intervention is needed.
• Task Management and Scheduling Tools. Visual and auditory reminders delivered via smartphone apps or wearable devices help disabled individuals stay on schedule for appointments, activities, and daily routines.

The benefits of using assistive technology can be life changing. AT allows individuals with disabilities to perform daily tasks on their own, reducing reliance on caregivers and fostering self-determination.

Emergency alert systems and health monitoring tools provide an added layer of protection for individuals living alone or semi-independently.

AAC devices give a voice to nonverbal individuals, enabling better social interactions and reducing frustration caused by communication barriers. AT can reduce the physical and emotional demands on family members and professional caregivers, allowing them to focus on higher-level support needs.

Government-Sponsored Programs for Assistive Technology Adoption

Federal and state resources are available for people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who need AT to live in their communities. For example, New York State has the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities (TRAID) Program that provides free access to assistive technology to New York State residents with disabilities.

Medicaid may provide coverage for AT devices and services to individuals with I/DD if they are medically necessary and a doctor writes a prescription for the device or service. Ask your primary care provider about AT devices and services that could help you live more independently.

Also through Medicaid, a qualified beneficiary may be able to get a home and community-based services waiver (HCBS Waiver) for funds to be used toward receiving long-term care services in their home or community instead of in an institutional setting.

Resources for Finding Accessible Housing

Despite obstacles to securing accessible housing, there are resources throughout the United States. The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has a plethora of resources for older adults and individuals with disabilities who want to live in their communities rather than in institutions. The ACL also has assistive technology resources.

Resources for Individuals With Disabilities

To learn about assistive technology resources in your state, refer to the Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training Center (AT3 Center) website. You can also consult an experienced special needs planning attorney near you to learn more about your rights and local resources available to you.

For additional reading about resources on housing options for people with disabilities, check out the following articles:

• Independent Living for People With Disabilities
• Is an Intermediate Care Facility Right for Your Loved One?
• Housing Options for Loved Ones With Special Needs
• Disability Community Continues Fight for Access to Home Care
• Report: How Feds Can Improve HCBS for People With I/DD