UIC Assistive Technology Unit

9 live sessions. 45+ recorded sessions. CEUs. Sign up for the FREE ATIA 2024 Virtual Event to discover what’s new and the power of assistive technology: https://ow.ly/fSv750QpA6g

This week, the UIC Assistive Technology Unit is hosting a week-long workshop on Teaching Movements for Communication aimed at giving access to augmentative communication for children with physical impairments. Internationally recognized experts Gayle Porter (Australia), Claire Cotter (Australia), and Linda Burkhart (US) have participants engaged through lectures, videos, demonstrations, and physical learning. Everyone was on yoga mats yesterday afternoon!

Photo ID 1: About 25 people are sitting at tables in a large classroom looking up at a screen and the three instructors. Open floor space to the right allows for physical practice of movements.

Photo ID 2: A large backdrop sign is positioned in the hallway of the Disability, Health and Social Policy building on UIC's medical district campus. Above an image of the Chicago skyline, the sign says, "Assistive Technology: Educating, Collaborating, Advocating. Promoting state of the art technology solutions for people with disabilities." The large classroom is down the hall.

One of the most common activities of daily living is showering or bathing. A woman who experienced paralysis on one side of her body from a stroke was using a hose in her kitchen to wash herself. She could not use her bathroom shower independently. Kathy Waldera, a licensed occupational therapist and rehabilitation engineer at UIC’s Assistive Technology Unit, conducted a home evaluation to determine how to make showering more accessible. With the addition of a reclining shower chair, bathing became an independent task for the woman. This is just one example of how the ATU supports independent living for people with disabilities through environmental evaluations and personalized solutions.

For individuals who need full positioning support in the shower, this line of mobile shower commode seating might be an option to consider:

Tilt Mobile Shower Commode Chair RAZ-AT (Attendant Tilt) rehab shower commode chair tilts providing extra pressure reduction.

Most individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) experience spasticity, which is muscle stiffness. It makes fine motor control more difficult. One technologically savvy young man with CP was facing challenges when using his standard computer mouse and keyboard. He was referred to Kathleen Ellis, an occupational therapist at UIC’s Assistive Technology Unit. She showed him the N-Abler Pro Joystick, an alternative mouse which allows the user to click and drag objects on the computer using a joystick. This device made using the computer more accessible for this young man by reducing the need for fine motor control.

https://www.inclusivetlc.com/n-abler-pro-joystick

Image ID: A grey box with black joystick surrounded by five buttons. The buttons control mouse clicks and other functions.

n-ABLER Pro Joystick n-ABLER Pro Joystick The n-ABLER Pro Joystick is specifically designed for computer users with limited hand control, motor skill difficulties, poor

Summer assistive technology courses begin June 12, 2023. Register today through UIC's Extended Campus. https://onlineprograms.uic.edu/assistive-technology-certificate-program/
- AT and Transportation
- 3D Printing in AT
- Technology to Support UDL
- Environmental Modification
- Ergonomics and Safety for Workers with Disabilities

https://conta.cc/3oaCyFj

Summer assistive technology courses Classes start June 12, 2023. Sign up for summer courses today! June 12 - August 2, 2023 DHD 567 2 credits AAC for Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (full - registration closed) DHD 594c 2 cred

People who use assistive technology to facilitate walking have difficulty holding any besides their rollator or walker. A woman in her 60s with various underlying chronic illnesses and mobility impairment had trouble holding grocery bags when she went shopping. She was referred to Julia Bates, an occupational therapist at UIC’s Assistive Technology Unit. Julia collaborated with other clinicians at the ATU to 3D print a personalized solution - two detachable links between the rollator and cart which allowed the two to connect like a train. This made grocery shopping more accessible for the client. Creative minds come together to design individual solutions!

Photo ID: A before and after comparison. The before photo shows a rollator and a small metal shopping cart with wheels. The after photo shows the two joined together with 3D printed arms that are attached to the bottom of the rollator and underneath the cart.

Even simple tasks can become difficult when a person develops arthritis. Daily activities such as cleaning, dressing, and making a phone call may require significant effort. One man with arthritis repeatedly dropped his phone due to a weak grasp. Tracy Nakashima, an occupational therapist with the ATU, proposed an affordable cell phone stand which the client was able to promptly purchase from a credible online retailer. This small implementation made a big difference, allowing this gentleman to use his phone for longer periods of time. Assistive technology is often about solving problems with simple, off-the-shelf items!

Photo ID: Small silver metal stand with hinge. The top part can hold a small item, such as a cell phone. This item is available on Amazon at https://tinyurl.com/mrxww8u9

Sleep is crucial for physical health as well as socioemotional wellbeing. Despite the importance, one in three adults do not get enough sleep. One man with hemiplegia was having trouble sleeping due to his bed being too soft. He was referred to Mary Ellyn O’Connor, an OT at UIC’s Assistive Technology Unit. O’Connor was able to find an existing, commercially available solution–a bed topper from Bedstory. It was easy to use and supported quality sleep for the client. This simple modification is just one example of many products that are already at consumers' fingertips and have the potential to provide instant comfort.

Toppers Available Toppers BedStory® Memory Foam Mattress Topper 3 Inch star star star star star_half 14 Review(s)  $95.99 ERGONOMIC DESIGN & PAIN-PAIN RELIEF: Features a double-layer foam design, the memory foam for body-conforming pressure release to relieve back pain, and the polyurethane foam for su...

Imagine living in a nursing home and not being able to speak to those around you. One resident wanted to move out of their current living situation, but after having a laryngectomy, they had no voice box to speak to others. They were then introduced to a speech pathologist at UIC's Assistive Technology Unit, Ellyn McNamara. Ellyn collaborated with the person over the course of many visits to find the communication system that they preferred. They were introduced to an iPad and text-to-speech apps (Proloquo2Go). With practice, this assistive technology gave them access to communicating with others and eventually they were able to move out of the nursing home. This device was just one communication solution that was used to meet their goals while fitting into their lifestyle.

Proloquo2Go - AAC app with symbols - AssistiveWare You’ll love how this symbol-based app helps users learn how to express themselves. Proloquo2Go puts the user’s development first, with innovative features based on clinical knowledge and user research.

Gripping simple and necessary things can be difficult for some people. One woman wanted to move from a nursing home to independent living and was referred to the Assistive Technology Unit at UIC. An occupational therapist, Justin Calpe, introduced her to a rollator walker with wheels which would help her to walk. However, she had issues gripping and using the brake system. Justin and his team were able to design and create an adaptive tool using 3D printing which was attached to the hand brakes. This made the rollator accessible when other alternatives did not. With technological advancements like 3D printing, the ATU can provide clients with customized solutions.

Photo ID: Before and after closeup of the rollator brake handle. The 3D printed adaptation extends its length to reduce the grip needed for applying the brakes.

Last week to save 20%! Register by April 7 for June workshops with international experts in augmentative communication Claire Cotter, Gayle Porter and Linda Burkhart.

June 19-23, 2023 - Teaching Movements for Communication
June 26-30, 2023 - Advanced PODD

https://conta.cc/3M605Ri

Last week to save 20% Register by April 7! Rare opportunity to learn from international experts in Augmentative Communication Last week to save 20%! Early bird deadline extended one week Register by 11:59pm Friday, April 7

Approximately 16,000 individuals in the US are living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This degenerative disease affects the trunk muscles, eventually making it difficult to sit upright or even eat on one’s own. One man with ALS had difficulty sitting on his wheelchair and found himself leaning over his knees. He was referred to Lori Peculis, a physical therapist in UIC’s Assistive Technology Unit. Lori found that simply leaning his chair backward was not enough to fix the problem. She introduced him to an anterior trunk support (BodyPoint), which allowed him to eat and swallow safely. With degenerative diseases similar to ALS, various assistive technology is necessary to ensure that an individual can maintain their highest level of functioning throughout their life course.

Bodypoint Stayflex Chest Support for Wheelchair Users The Stayflex™ Chest Support gives users needing trunk control, firm support without sacrificing comfortable shoulder movement. The patented "dual-zone" elastic construction virtually eliminates shifting upwards at the neckline as the user leans forward reducing the risk of strangulation. Made of c...

Imagine you wanted to apply to a job but could not write? This is the challenge for some people living with dyslexia. One woman dreams of becoming a CNA. However, she is facing the challenge of obtaining her GED before she can apply for CNA training. She was referred to UIC’s Assistive Technology Unit by her DRS vocational counselor. Assistive technology specialists at the ATU introduced her to text-to-speech software (Kurzweil 3000) and speech recognition software (Voice Typing in Google Docs). With practice, this technology will give the woman access to applying to the programs she needs and successfully completing them. Having the right technology is one step to achieving her desired career.
https://www.kurzweiledu.com/k3000-firefly/overview.html
https://support.google.com/docs/answer/4492226?hl=en

Kurzweil 3000 Assistive Learning Technology and Literacy Tools from Kurzweil Education Unlock your student's potential with Kurzweil 3000 assistive technology and literacy tools! Enjoy a personal learning experience and sign-up for a free trial today!

ADVANCED 5-DAY PODD COURSE - in Chicago this summer!
Presented by: Gayle Porter and Linda Burkhart
This intensive advanced PODD workshop is for people who have completed a two or three day PODD Introductory workshop and are now seeking to further develop their knowledge and skill. PODD stands for Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display.

This course aims to build on current knowledge and fluency using PODD communication books for individuals who have begun to implement these strategies with students. Focus will be on building fluency, refining observational assessment and implementation planning skills, and strategies for training communication partners. The course will also provide opportunities for problem‐solving more complex challenges. Content will include case studies from participants.

June 26-30, 2023
REGISTER NOW! Early bird deadline is April 1, 2023.
https://conta.cc/3BqXJXg

5-day advanced PODD workshop! In Chicago this summer   UIC ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY UNIT 5-Day Advanced PODD Workshop Prerequisite: 2-3 day PODD introductory course Presented by: Gayle Porter and Linda Burkhart   June 26-30, 2023 8:00

Back this summer by popular demand!
TEACHING MOVEMENTS FOR COMMUNICATION 5-day workshop
Presented by: Claire Cotter, Gayle Porter, and Linda Burkhart
June 19-23, 2023

For some children with complex communication needs, it is the method of accessing the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) system that is significantly affecting their development of intelligible, autonomous communication. This intensive five-day workshop will focus on identifying posture and movement challenges in relation to their impact on communication development, assessment and intelligibility. A range of strategies and a process to teach movements for communication will be demonstrated.
REGISTER TODAY! Early bird rate ends April 1, 2023.
https://conta.cc/3uHEchA

5-day workshop on AAC access! In Chicago this summer   UIC ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY UNIT Teaching Movements for Communication Accessing AAC for Children Who Have Complex Communication Needs Presented by: Claire Cotter, Gayle Porter, a

Augmentative communication devices are tools that help non-speaking individuals with disabilities engage in conversations. Kathy Waldera, an occupational therapist and rehab engineer at the ATU, worked with a client who was deaf and had cerebral palsy. Although he used an ASL interpreter as well as a caregiver, Kathy and the ATU team helped him investigate technology as an additional communication resource. Kathy helped look at his range of motion to determine how he could best use a tablet computer. Adding a mount to his wheelchair allowed him to reach the tablet in a comfortable way. Plastic keyguards could also be added to the iPad to help with precision when pressing an onscreen button.

Photo ID: A person is using a communication app on a tablet computer mounted to their wheelchair. The mount - an angled metal pole - holds the tablet firmly at just the right height and distance for the person to reach the on-screen buttons with their index finger.

Some people with disabilities experience a lack of access to a home in their community. Julia Bates, an occupational therapist and AT specialist with the ATU, worked with a client who was 67 years old, had a spinal cord injury, and got assistance through the Colbert Consent Decree program. This program helps people with disabilities move from nursing facilities to their own homes. Since the client was not able to sit up right and maintain a posture, a rolling shower chair was provided. The chair had a head rest and an additional positioning belt that was adjustable to make it easier for showering. Tools like this give people access to a home of their own.

For example, this rolling shower chair is similar to a wheelchair, where it rolls and tilts back to provide more comfort for the user.
https://www.healthlinemedical.com/product/model-155-aluminum-shower-commode-15-seat/

Did you know almost any object could be modified to the needs of an individual? It just takes creativity! Mary Ellen O’Connor, occupational therapist and AT specialist with the ATU, gives an example. She once worked with a client with a spinal cord injury. It was hard for him to take cards out of lanyards. Mary Ellen modified the lanyard so he could hold the card with one finger, making it easier for him to take it out.

Sometimes modifications are commercially available. The image below shows silicone straps that allow for a more stable, firm grip of eating utensils and everyday tools, like a toothbrush or pencil. But when modifications are not available for purchase, the fabrication lab at the ATU can create them using 3D printers and other tools!

The first thing that comes to mind when we think about communication are different languages, including sign language and gestures. Everyone needs to communicate freely with those around them. To celebrate the last day of Augmentative and Alternative Communication month, we had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Stephanie Bay, a speech language pathologist with the ATU, to discuss these different methods. Stephanie mentioned a specific client that she worked with, who was non-verbal. He is on the autism spectrum, has no physical disability, and uses different strategies to communicate. Stephanie helped him use an app called the Speech Assistant AAC. He can customize the screen with commonly used sentences or phrases. This makes it easier to converse quickly with other people.

Learn more about Speech Assistant AAC in this video from the ALS Association: https://youtu.be/GCL7rai-oh8 This app is just one of many that support alternative communication.

Assistive Technology Series: Text-to-speech (TTS)/Speech Assistant AAC Demo Jackie, the Evergreen Chapters Assistive Technology Specialist, gives an introduction to text-to-speech & tutorial that may assist in understanding alternati...

Have you ever thought about the accessibility of your own home? Most U.S homes are not accessible and renovations can be costly. Justin Calpe, an occupational therapist and assistive technology specialist with the ATU, worked with someone who was blind and had moved into a new apartment. There were many challenges that came with moving into a new space. But the apartment had a big safety risk. Even though the apartment was open and spacious, the kitchen floor was lower than the living room. This creates a fall hazard. Anti-slip treads are what helped the young man walk around his apartment in a safe way. Anti-slip treads alerted the man to the border between the kitchen floor and the living room.

Here's an example of anti-slip tread tape:

3M™ Safety-Walk™ Slip-Resistant Medium Resilient Tapes and Treads 300 Series A resilient, non mineral, slip resistant material. Soft surface is suitable for bare feet.

Going to Closing the Gap assistive technology conference next week in Minneapolis? See you there! Stop by our booth and meet with ATU clinicians and AT certificate program instructors Dr. Stephanie Bay, Dan Cochrane, and Kathy Hooyenga.
https://www.closingthegap.com/

Have you ever wondered how to write a paper for school without using a pen, paper, keyboard, or mouse? Daniel Cochrane, a special educator, works with the team at the ATU to provide an innovative method to students who are unable to use traditional computer access methods to complete an assignment. Recently, he worked with two young men with cerebral palsy who have difficulty using computers with their hands. The team has been exploring a software program called Grid 3. This software provides access to computers through switches and scanning. Two scanning options for writing are a grid of words where a person can choose whole words to form a sentence and a grid of letters where the person can spell out a word until the system predicts the one they want. This type of assistive technology offers students and others the opportunity to use computers in a way that works best for them. To learn more about these features, check out the “access options” section of the product website.

Grid 3 - thinksmartbox.com Grid 3 empowers disabled people to communicate and live more independent lives, with eye gaze, switch technology, touch or pointing devices.

Are you looking for an AAC user to speak to your gathering or students about their experiences? The United States Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (USSAAC) has created a speaker portal where you can connect with public speakers who use AAC to communicate. Check it out!

AAC Speaker Connection (USSAAC) People who use AAC deserve to have their voices heard and to be reimbursed for their unique contributions. USSAAC's AAC Speaker Connection is here to connect people who use AAC of all ages with...

Are you a parent/caregiver looking to become a more effective communicator when interacting with an individual who uses an AAC speech-generating device (SGD)? Increase your skills with AAC Group Coaching! Follow the link to the PRC-Saltillo announcement about AAC group coaching options.

NOTE: UIC ATU is not affiliated with PRC-Saltillo. This post is informational only.

https://mailchi.mp/prc-saltillo.com/coaching-with-aac-custom-coaching-apr-2022-4707795?e=f940ce4ae2

AAC Group Coaching - Register Today!

Interested in the cutting edge of assistive and accessible technology? Need CEUs? Take a close look at this year's RESNA conference. There are keynote speakers (including disability scholar Tom Shakespeare) and over 30 continuing education sessions. Also, major companies like Google Research, Volkswagen and Waymo are joining to talk about "Driving the future of AT." The low cost of registration for this virtual conference works out to $14 per IACET CEU. You will have access to all recordings (and opportunity to earn additional credits) until 2023. Register today! Here's the link to register: www.resna.org/Events/RESNA-2022-Virtual-Conference/

Annual Conference The RESNA 2022 Conference, taking place July 13 – 15, 2022, will bring together assistive technology professionals from a variety of disciplines to exchange ideas about the latest innovations and research helping people with disabilities lead independent, healthy lives.

Last week, UIC's Assistive Technology Unit hosted a week-long on-campus workshop taught by international experts in augmentative communication: Claire Cotter, Gayle Porter and Linda Burkhart. Clinical Assistant Professor Stephanie Bay organized the sold-out event that welcomed 54 participants from across Europe, Africa, Canada, and the United States. Occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, special educators, and parents of individuals with complex communication needs engaged with instructors and each other across five full days of learning.

Occupational therapist and rehab engineer Kathy Waldera welcomes new team member Mary Ellen O'Connor to the ATU. Mary Ellen is an occupational therapist with experience in many settings, serving the last three years in a skilled nursing facility. She joins the ATU to provide assistive technology to clients transitioning from nursing homes into community living. Mary Ellen specializes in AT to support mobility and activities of daily living. Funding for this service is provided through the Colbert and Williams Consent Decrees.

Learn more about the Olmstead Decision Consent Decrees in Illinois: https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=98210

Photo ID: Kathy and Mary Ellen pose in their ATU office with two different types of walkers that will be delivered to clients. Seating cushions for wheelchairs are lined up on the shelves behind them.