Assistive technology for spinal cord injury

Overview

If you've experienced a spinal cord injury, you may benefit from assistive technology (AT) or adaptive equipment as you return to your home and job. Technology to help people with spinal cord injury includes advanced wheelchairs, smartphones, and other devices and assistive robotics.

AT may help you improve your physical functioning and better adapt to the routine of daily living. From mobility to sports to communicating, AT can help improve quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries.

There is a wide range of assistive technology and adaptive equipment for people with spinal cord injuries, including:

• Communication options. If you have a spinal cord injury, you may have a hard time writing or using a computer or phone. AT options may help you use computers, smart devices and other communication tools at home, school or work and during other activities.

  Therapists look at your needs to determine which AT equipment may help you. For example, a speech-language pathologist works with you if you need a speech-generating device, also known as an augmentative and alternative communication device. The therapist recommends the most appropriate options and provides ongoing treatment as needed.

• Other assistive technology options. If you have impaired hand function or mobility, you may have a hard time operating controls around your home. Therapists look at your need for a specific subset of AT called electronic aids to daily living. This technology allows you to control devices in your home so that you can live more independently.

  Assistive technology can help you adjust your bed, operate television controls and use other controls. Tablet devices available with assistive technology software and device options allow you to access a computer.