As you search for assistive technology that works for you, it might be helpful to think of it like the process you would use to buy a car (thanks to our colleagues in Wisconsin for this analogy).When you look for a car, different people have different key features they want. Some go for safety, some go for sleek looks and maneuverability, some are looking at fuel economy, my brother who is 6’7” first checks to make sure he can actually fit in and drive the car, others go simply looking for something that fits their budget.
Assistive technology is the same way—different people are looking for different features, with the added complication of funding sources on top. Another way that purchasing assistive technology is like buying a car is the “used car salesperson” approach that some vendors take. There are good and bad car salespeople and good and bad AT vendors. A bad car salesperson can get you in a car that might break down as soon as you drive off the lot. A bad AT vendor can get you a device you don’t need or a device that doesn’t fit you and actually causes you physical harm due to the lack of fit.
Our colleagues have found that a person that would never put up with a broken television from the store down the street might get by with a broken piece of AT or a poorly installed home modification. We need the tools we use to be good consumers of other products in our purchase and use of AT.
Michigan Disability Rights Coalition
3498 East Lake Lansing Road, Suite 100
East Lansing, MI 48823
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