assistive technologies
Disability support devices
Assistive technologies are devices, software, or equipment that help people with disabilities perform tasks they would otherwise find difficult or impossible.
Screen readers convert text to speech for the blind; hearing aids amplify sound; wheelchairs provide mobility.
The category spans low-tech solutions like magnifying glasses to sophisticated systems like eye-tracking software: The university provides assistive technologies for students with learning disabilities.
Program converting text to audio
- hearing aidEar-worn sound amplifier
- wheelchairSeated conveyance for mobility-impaired
- prosthesisManufactured replacement body part
- braille displayTactile computer output device
mobility scooter · cochlear implant · sip-and-puff · eye tracker · voice synthesizer · communication board · magnifier · TTY
Creating spaces usable by all
- inclusive designApproach accommodating diverse abilities
- accessible designCreation usable by everyone
- barrier-freeWithout physical obstructions
- user-centeredOriented toward people's needs
ergonomic · customizable · adjustable · configurable · usability · affordance · multimodal · intuitive design
System connecting mind to machine
- exoskeletonExternal skeletal structure
- neuroprostheticsNerve-interfacing medical technology
- smart glassesComputing eyewear with display
- augmented realityVirtual elements on real surroundings
eye tracking · gesture control · artificial intelligence · machine learning · bionic limb · haptic feedback · predictive text · neural implant
On-screen transcription of audio
- audio descriptionSpoken explanation of visuals
- text-to-speechConverting writing to audio
- speech-to-textAudio-to-written conversion technology
- alt textWritten substitute for visuals
high contrast · large print · accessible parking · sign language interpretation · voice control · captioning · transcription · accessible format
Inclined surface for wheeled mobility
- grab barsFixed handles for stability
- stairliftsMotorized seats ascending steps
- walkersAmbulators or mobility aids
- canesSupportive walking sticks
crutches · transfer bench · shower chair · bed rails · reachers · lift · roll-in shower · handrails
Wearable alignment devices
- prostheticsFabricated body part replacements
- pacemakerDevice regulating heartbeat
- cochlear implantImplanted auditory nerve stimulator
- insulin pumpProgrammable hormone infusion device
screen reader
Program converting text to audio
- hearing aidEar-worn sound amplifier
- wheelchairSeated conveyance for mobility-impaired
- prosthesisManufactured replacement body part
braille display · mobility scooter · cochlear implant · sip-and-puff · eye tracker · voice synthesizer · communication board · magnifier · TTY
universal design
Creating spaces usable by all
- inclusive designApproach accommodating diverse abilities
- accessible designCreation usable by everyone
- barrier-freeWithout physical obstructions
user-centered · ergonomic · customizable · adjustable · configurable · usability · affordance · multimodal · intuitive design
brain-computer interface
System connecting mind to machine
- exoskeletonExternal skeletal structure
- neuroprostheticsNerve-interfacing medical technology
- smart glassesComputing eyewear with display
augmented reality · eye tracking · gesture control · artificial intelligence · machine learning · bionic limb · haptic feedback · predictive text · neural implant · robotic arm
closed captioning
On-screen transcription of audio
- audio descriptionSpoken explanation of visuals
- text-to-speechConverting writing to audio
- speech-to-textAudio-to-written conversion technology
alt text · high contrast · large print · accessible parking · sign language interpretation · voice control · captioning · transcription · accessible format
wheelchair ramp
Inclined surface for wheeled mobility
- grab barsFixed handles for stability
- stairliftsMotorized seats ascending steps
- walkersAmbulators or mobility aids
canes · crutches · transfer bench · shower chair · bed rails · reachers · lift · roll-in shower · handrails · accessible restroom
orthotics
Wearable alignment devices
- prostheticsFabricated body part replacements
- pacemakerDevice regulating heartbeat
- cochlear implantImplanted auditory nerve stimulator
assistive technologiesimpediments
Things that obstruct progress
obstacles · weapons · hindrances · restraints
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