Assistive Technology Helps Troops Gain Independence, Return to ‘Normal’ Daily Living
By Taylor, Sharon Renee; Stripes,Publication Date: November 11, 2010
Article describes assistive technology and therapeutic services provided to injured armed services members at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC). Occupational therapists with the Warrior Transition Brigade’s Occupational Therapy Work Education Program at WRAMC assess any functional barriers service members may have and partner with assistive technology specialists to select appropriate accommodations. Together, they train Warriors in Transition (WIT) at Walter Reed to use the selected tools. The Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program (CAP), a Department of Defense program, provides service members with the devices, which are theirs to keep. Technology ranges from special keyboards with interchangeable overlays, to software that enlarges text up to 32 times the size of a regular font, to a smartpen that records everything the user hears, writes, and draws. Other devices provided include special joy sticks, touch pads and switches, mounting devices, and other accommodations to increase computer access for users with dexterity disabilities, blindness or low vision, hearing impairments, or cognitive or communication disabilities. The goal of the CAP program is to get the WITs involved in internships and educational opportunities while they are healing at WRAMC.
Published by: Comprint Military Publications (Website:http://www.dcmilitary.com/)
Link to text: http://www.dcmilitary.com/stories/111110/stripe_28320.shtml
