Assistive Technology Services
What is the Assistive Technology Program?
Assistive Technology (AT) includes devices, products, and services which allow people with disabilities to move freely in their home and community environments, obtain jobs, and maintain their independence. Examples include wheelchairs, scooters, vehicle loading ramps, communication devices, hearing aids, computers, bathing devices, and more.
Ability 1st provides the free temporary use of durable medical equipment to our consumers through our loan bank. However, our goal is to help our consumers find permanent solutions. This is where the Assistive Technology Program comes in.
The program’s services include formal and informal assessments, advocacy, information and referral, and equipment trials. Assistive technology evaluation serves to help individuals with disabilities make informed choices about adaptive equipment and find the most cost-effective ways to meet their needs. We help identify providers and funding resources, and we provide follow-up training to help consumers to effectively maintain their AT devices.
Who is the program for?
This program was designed for anyone with any disability who is in need of different ways to accommodate their needs through technology. This can include low- or high-tech AT items. All ages are included in this program.
What are the eligibility requirements?
To receive Ability 1st funding, an applicant must be a person with a disability who meets certain income eligibility guidelines. Contact your assigned Independent Living Coordinator for more details, or to schedule a free eligibility assessment. If you do not meet the income requirements, we are happy to help you find alternative resources that can provide the devices and care that you need.
Assistive Technology Success Story:
J. is a 24-year old man who lives with his parents. J. was in an auto accident and is now paralyzed from the chest down. He was unable to walk and has limited use of his hands. He depends on a wheelchair to access his living space and the community. There have also been a number of setbacks and complications, and he has required more than 70 surgeries since the accident.
On August 27, 2024 J. received from the State an VPL (elevator porch) and he is able to enter and access the community and maintain his independence.
His father, wrote a letter of appreciation:
“Mrs. Jhilma and all the wonderful team that makes up Ability 1st Utah.
I express my sincere gratitude for all that you do, for so many people in special conditions. Your beautiful work for others is priceless to repay you, you are angels who look like people. God protect you and bless you always for your help to so many people, among them, thank you for helping my son with his elevator.
To you, respectable Mrs. Jhilma and to the entire team, we will always have you in our prayers. May God always bless you and your families.
Thanks a lot!”