Finding the Money

Introduction

Assistive technology offers people with disabilities the promise of increased independence and an enhanced quality of life. This isn't news. Nor is it news that access to technology has been a problem.

A lack of information about assistive technology is a major impediment to access. (The Infinitec Inc. Web site is an attempt—one of many—to help solve that problem.) Another major obstacle is money. Assistive technology devices can be very simple—as simple as a modified drawer pull—or very sophisticated—such as a programmable communication device. Whether a device or piece of equipment is purchased as-is, custom-made, or modified, as it increases in sophistication, its cost goes up. Often, the cost of a much-needed device or piece of equipment is far beyond a family's or individual's ability to pay.

Limitations on personal financial resources should not prohibit a person with a disability from developing his or her full potential to live as independently as possible in a community setting, get an appropriate, free education in the least restrictive setting, and hold a productive job. In the U.S., those are rights supported by law.

As a person with a disability, or as the parent, teacher, therapist, etc. of a person with a disability, you must become familiar with these rights under the law and then learn how those rights dovetail with the various assistive technology funding options which are available.

It can be done. You can do it.