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What is the DC Assistive Technology Program?
We are celebrating Assistive Technology month this November by beginning with a spotlight on the DC Assistive Technology Program!
DCATP helps individuals of all disabilities, seniors and their support network to learn about, access, and acquire devices and products to improve their ability to function more independently at home, school, work and in the community.
Assistive technology (AT) is an umbrella term for any product or service that helps people function better in their daily lives, from wheelchairs and glasses to iPads and hearing aids.
Globally, more than 2.5 billion people need one or more assistive products. With an ageing global population and a rise in noncommunicable diseases, an estimated 3.5 billion people will need assistive technology by 2050.
DCATP offers a number of services, with six key subprograms to best serve the people of Washington, D.C.
- DC Assistive Technology and Resources Center
- At the AT Resource Center, you can explore active technology devices and try them out in-person to see what fits your lifestyle the best.
- DC Assistive Technology Loan Program
- This device loan program allows people to borrow AT devices easily and at no cost. You can rent listening devices, augmentative communication devices, compact refreshable Braile displays, and more!
- DC Shares
- Our Durable Medical Equipment Recycling Program provides free equipment to residents in need. We have many types of equipment that helps individual with disabilities or temporary injuries manage their personal needs and daily activities more easily. You can also donate equipment that is unused or in good condition!
- DC Funds
- This federally-funded program allows DC residents to borrow money at a very low interest rate in order to purchase much-needed assistive technology devices.
- Get Connected
- Get Connected educates people with disabilities and seniors on useful technology features that can help them use their smartphones, tablets, laptops, or computers.
- Assistive Technology Champions Programs
- The Assistive Technology Champions Programs empowers young adults (16+) with disabilities to share their passion for assistive technology and grow their advocacy, outreach, and social media skills.
Featured AT Device: BeHear Proxy
BeHear Proxy is primarily for individuals who are hard of hearing. It is worn on the shoulders,l and essentially functions as a wireless neck speaker that generates rich sound just inches from your ears. The device can be connected to a smartphone and Bluetooth enabled television. It can be switched to the personal mode using the retractable earbuds to amplify in-person conversations. Also, the device can help individuals who have difficulty projecting their voice on phone and video calls. The BeHear app offers a hearing test and customizes the BeHear Proxy to the individual's hearing level.
The device has been demonstrated to many DC residents at outreach events and DC Assistive Technology clients at the DC AT Resource Center. Some have borrowed the device and determined that it is a game changer in their life. Some have purchased the device, and others await funding from various resources.
