Please contact your local K-State Research and Extension agent to bring this program to your community. Information for Leaders may be found HERE.

Assistive technology can be applied in many areas to make life easier. Fashion an Easier Lifestyle with Assistive Technology gives participants the opportunity to see how assistive technology can improve quality of life. A tool kit gives a broad overview of the variety of assistive devices available. The kit contains simple devices that can be implemented in four lifestyle areas: personal care, preparing meals, household chores, and recreational activity. Information on how and where to buy assistive technology is also provided.

For more information on assistive technology please see the links below, or read the press release.

What is assistive technology?
Assistive technology (AT) refers to a variety of devices and strategies that are designed to adapt certain tasks. AT may be utilized by and may benefit almost anyone. If you need assistance because of a chronic condition, such as diabetes or arthritis, if you live with a disability, or even if you are recovering from a surgery, then you may find assistive technology tools helpful. As an example, if you have arthritis, an electric can opener might help prevent joint stress. For examples of assistive technology devices, please view the PowerPoint Presentation.

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Where can I purchase assistive technology?
Some forms of assistive technology may be found in stores in your local community. For example, some farm and ranch stores may carry gardening tools that have been designed with ergonomic principles in mind.  A local medical supply store or pharmacy may be another option. Online retailers are another option if you are not able to find assistive technology items in your community. Companies specialize in offering assistive technology, and they may be visited online, or you may purchase items through their catalogs.
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What does assistive technology cost?
Sometimes paying for assistive technology devices can be a challenge. Most people have to purchase items themselves, out of their household budget. Certain items that are considered to be medically necessary may be covered or partially covered by Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance. Veterans should also check with the local Department of Veteran Affairs to see if financial assistance is available. Certain organizations, such as the Arthritis Foundation, may offer help with the cost of purchasing certain items for people who meet their eligibility criteria. The Assistive Technology for Kansans Project can provide you with more information about these possibilities.

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Where can I find more information on assistive technology?
For more information on assistive technology consult any of the following resources:

Assistive Technology for Kansans (ATK)
The Assistive Technology for Kansans Project has five sites around the state and is coordinated by Kansas University’s Center on Disabilities. The project’s main mission is to support individuals with disabilities through the use of assistive technology. For more information, visit the ATK website or call (1-800-KAN-DO-IT).

Arthritis Foundation, Kansas Chapter
The Arthritis Foundation has as its mission to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases. For information, visit the Arthritis Foundation website (keyword: Kansas) or call 1-800-362-1108.

Kansas AgrAbility Project
Kansas AgrAbility, coordinated by Kansas State University, aims to help farmers with disabilities continue to work in agriculture. Assistive technology experts visit farmers and their families and make recommendations for tools and adaptations. For information, please visit the AgrAbility website or call (1-800-KAN-DO-IT).

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Kansas Department on Aging is offering financial assistance to older adults with disabilities to purchase needed assistive technology items. For more information, click HERE.