Tech Connection of FRA will be presenting, “What’s New in Windows 8 Accessibility on Thursday June 20, 2013. Learn about the new touch feature, which allows users to directly interact with everything on the screen by touch, without using a keyboard or mouse, including managing accessibility options in the Ease of Access Center. Learn about all the built in accessibility features to help make using the computer easier and see how you can personalize the screen for better viewing or use the magnification feature. Participants will discover many additional built in features that can help you use the keyboard easier or not at all!

Date: Thursday, June 20
Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Where: TECHConnection at FRA
35 Haddon Avenue – Shrewsbury, NJ 07702

RSVP: Call 732-747-5310 ext. 124 or email: pmoss@frainc.org

Directions:
Garden State Parkway to Exit 109 – “Red Bank”. Follow the exit ramp to Rt. 520 EAST(Newman Springs Road). Take 520 East, 2 miles until the road comes to a “T” at Rt. 35 (there is a Dunkin Donuts on the right). Make a right onto Rt. 35 South and an immediate right (10 yards) onto Haddon Ave.

For more information: www.frainc.org/techconnection/index.html

Many Americans use assistive technology to allow them to speak with computer-generated voices. These voices have improved in quality in the last few decades, but are still rather robotic sounding and impersonal.

Teenager Haley Shiber speaks in a polished, mature voice. It comes out of a hot pink tablet computer attached to her wheelchair.

This 16-year-old from Smyrna, Del., has cerebral palsy and a comprehensive, degenerative neuromuscular disorder. She uses switches on her wheelchair headrest to tell the speech program on her computer to produce words, jokes, and programmed phrases she can articulate quickly.

“My hobbies are riding my bike, going to see the Phillies, the opera, plays, and 4-H and art,” she said, in one such phrase.

Synthetic voices such as the one Haley uses have become easier on the ear in the past few decades, as the companies creating them strove for easy understandability. But they retain a distinct synthetic quality, one that isolates Haley, according to her mother, Debbie Shiber.

“The roboticness gets in the way of actually developing relationships,” Shiber said. “It’s accepted by us because, you know, that’s just her voice. But it would be wonderful if she had a more natural quality to her voice.”

The problem with synthetic voices is not just that they are, by nature, synthetic sounding. There are a limited number of voices to choose from, which makes it difficult for users of assistive communication devices to find a voice that matches their age and personality. Haley’s voice, for example, sounds a bit too grownup for a 16-year-old wearing neon pink shoelaces and teal-tinged glasses.

Experts say it gets worse: It is not uncommon for two or three people to be talking with assistive technology, all in the same room together, all in the exact same voice.

This is where Tim Bunnell steps in. Bunnell is head of the Speech Research Lab at Nemours/Alfred I. duPont Hospital for Children. His goal is to give people their own voice for the first time.

“What we’re trying to do is develop personal voices for people,” Bunnell said. “So that everyone would have their own unique voice and be able to impose on it an identity that they can identify with.”

Haley Shiber is the first test case for Bunnell’s team. Years ago, before she lost the ability to make any utterances during a critical surgery, Debbie Shiber recorded the sounds her daughter could make.

Recently, Bunnell dusted off those recordings and isolated a pure vowel sound from Haley’s vocalizations. Using software his team developed, he imposed the essence of that pure vowel sound onto a homemade synthetic voice he created using voice samples from a donor child. The resulting voice contained Haley’s voice quality and sounded younger, albeit choppier, than her old voice.

Bunnell recently loaded the new voice onto Haley’s computer when the family visited his Wilmington office.

“As a mother you never forget what your child’s voice sounds like, ” said Shiber, who was moved to tears the first time she heard the new voice. “Hearing the voice quality … it was just very emotional, because we haven’t heard Haley’s voice since 2006.”

Bunnell’s team originally developed the software for voice banking, to allow people with Lou Gehrig’s Disease and similar disorders to quickly create synthetic versions of their own voices for later use.

The technology is currently in beta testing under the name “ModelTalker Speech Synthesis System.” ALS patients and others can record voice samples at home, then send them to the company to be morphed into personalized synthetic voices.

The quality of the resulting voices vary greatly, however, largely because of the amount of data that goes into them. The homemade voices, including the voices for the ALS patients and the one Bunnell created for Haley, are based on about 45 minutes of recorded voice samples. Commercial voices use hours, sometimes dozens of hours, of speech, creating a much smoother voice that is easier to understand.

Before Bunnell gives new voices to any other test patients, he is developing a brand-new approach to create smoother, more professional-sounding personalized voices.

“Rather than record snippets of speech, we will actually have computers modeling how that speech is generated in the vocal tract,” Bunnell said. “So that it is a model, if you will, rather than a copy of the speech.”

Bunnell and a collaborator at Northeastern University will use measurements of vocal tract length, oral cavity width and other data to create this next generation of voices.

For now, the Shibers are glad Haley has a voice to call her own.

“Thank you for my speaking,” she said in her new voice when leaving Bunnell’s office. “You are awesome.”

This was taken from Newsworks.org. For the original article and to see a video of Haley, go to: www.newsworks.org/index.php/homepage-feature/item/52826-delaware-teen-gets-a-new-voice-video?Itemid=1&linktype=hp_featured

Deschamps, a New Jersey based family owned business, has created the Mobi-Chair, a high quality beach chair that provides people bound to wheelchair an easier way to access and navigate across the beach. The arm rests and wheels are made of floating materials that enable the chair to fully float in water.

The Mobi-Chair can be assembled or disassembled in 5 – 10 minutes without the use of any tools, and can easily fit into the back of the trunk of a vehicle. The aluminum frame and other materials are corrosion free and the fabric used for the chair is non allergenic, UV resistant, and ventilated for quick drying.

The Mobi-Chair is not inexpensive as it will set you back by $2200. There is little information on whether insurance companies would cover costs for the chair or not.

To see the video to see Mobi-Chair in action at: www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=KhBKMTNXEZY

For more information: http://mobi-chair.com/

Easter Seals and the INDATA Project have created a list of various assistive technology gifts for the holiday season. Ideas range from Braille Uno to television magnifiers, computer scanners, iPads, and Kindles.

For more information about gift ideas, pricing, and where to buy, see:

Easter Seals Gift Ideas: www.eastersealscrossroads.org/blog/2012/december/

INDATA Holiday Technology Shopping List: www.eastersealstech.com/2012/11/23

When employment support professionals work with people with significant physical disabilities, they often look for work that the person can do without accommodation. This tendency comes from a lack of training and experience in developing and implementing accommodations, including the consideration of assistive technology (AT). With funding from the Kessler Foundation, Advancing Opportunities (which partners with the NJ AT Act program) is working to remove that barrier by offering a new certificate program that targets professionals working in employment.

Earning an AT for Employment Certificate will help employment support professions apply the ethical guidelines put forth by the Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE).

Advancing Opportunities’ certificate program is designed to train employment support professionals to develop and implement job accommodations and assistive technology supports. An essential component of this training includes loaning assistive technology to participants over a period of 2 months to assist their carrying out trials and applying what they have learned. Students are provided with a kit that includes an iPod Touch pre-loaded with relevant work-oriented apps (and an opportunity to keep the technology for their program).

Helping professionals who are not specialists in AT consider AT is not new. There are many professionals in the K-12 setting, case managers, and vocational rehabilitation counselors, and others who are expected to be able to include AT in a system of supports. While each application is unique, the basic knowledge and skills that are needed for professionals to consider whether or not a consumer can benefit from assistive technology is the same.

With may states proclaiming themselves Employment First states, and with the development of APSE’s Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP), the time is right to support these professionals, and support employment first.

Learn more about this certification program at Advancing Opportunities’ Assistive Technology Center

In 2011, the RESNA Catalyst Project began a new initiative focusing on the use of AT for employment. The initiative includes the development of an AT for Employers Web Portal, which is designed as a gateway for employers to increase their understanding and use of AT in the workplace while accessing resources such as AT Act Program services.

Please take a look at the AT for Employers Web Portal and share this site with others.

If you have Portal comments and suggestions, please email your comments to pgalonsky@resna.org, or call 703-524-6686.

Twenty-four years after a year-old baby had his legs amputated in a South African hospital after being born without fibulae, that same child had grown into one of the world’s fastest 400-meter runners.

“The Blade Runner,” they call Pistorius. “The fastest man with no legs.” The 25-year-old motored toward the finish line of his preliminary heat here, his prosthetics click-click-clicking as he passed a Russian to qualify for Sunday’s semifinals.

“The experience to be here is a dream come true,” said Pistorius, the first amputee to run in an able-bodied Olympic Games. “I’ve worked for six years to try and make the 400 standard, and to come out today is just an unbelievable experience.”

He added, “It’s very difficult to separate the occasion from the race.”

Harder still is separating historical achievement from hot-button controversy. On the best day of his competitive life, Pistorius was not asked how many other children born without limbs he made feel whole again. Instead: Does a man with two ultra-light prosthetics have an unfair competitive advantage over able-bodied competitors?

“The moment in athletic history when engineered limbs outperform biological limbs has already passed,” two scientists told Sports Illustrated in 2009. Their findings were released in the Journal of Applied Physiology. They came out after the Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned a ban by track and field’s international governing body and allowed Pistorius to compete against able-bodied runners in international competition.

Though the research has been equally refuted and supported by scientists, doctors and lawyers on both sides of the issue, the fight won’t go away: Is a double amputee more fortunate than any of us realized?

Johnson, the world record holder in the 400 (and formerly in the 200) and a friend of Pistorius, nonetheless declared, “My position is that because we don’t know for sure whether he gets an advantage from the prosthetics that he wears it is unfair to the able-bodied competitors.”

“If the blades give so much of an advantage, then why aren’t other athletes who have them running as fast as me?” Pistorius asks rhetorically. “People say I must have an advantage because my legs are lighter. But I’ve got less blood running through them and don’t have the tendons in my ankles. People don’t talk about that.

“What I believe in is the fairness of sport,” he added. “It isn’t an advantage. In my heart, I know what’s right and I wouldn’t be running if I had any doubt.’’

Nearly every one of his able-bodied peers supported him when asked after their 400-meter heats Saturday whether they thought Pistorius should run.

It probably helps that Pistorius is not a medal threat. His 45.44 second time in his heat, his second-best time this year, could put him in Lane 1 or 8 of the 400-meter final but is not elite enough to begin threatening livelihoods.

If Pistorius were gold-medal good, the debate would become more inflamed. But at least his competitors fully understood the significance of a man overcoming astonishing odds to run in his own lane at an Olympics.

A baby born without bones in his lower legs is now among the fastest men to run the oval in the world.

When he runs Sunday, stop and take it in as a human being, without having to to dwell on the how and why. For at least one day, let’s start commemorating and stop calibrating.

For the entire article: Oscar Pistorius: Controversy and Celebration

In partnership with the Family Support Center of NJ (FSCNJ), Family Resource Associates announces the following upcoming workshops for students and seniors:

Assistive Device Demonstration and Loan Expo:
The goal of this workshop is to experience cool devices and software for individuals with physical or developmental disabilities or reading and writing challenges. Discover tools that will enable users assistance with:
- Taking notes
- Discovering software to eliminate spelling errors
- Increase reading level with devices that read for you
- Learn about Voice-to-text capabilities
- See how the iPad can help you

Five (recycled) computers, along with other door prizes will be given away at this workshop.

DATE: Wednesday, August 15, 2012
TIME: 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Overview & presentation
11:30 AM – 2:30 PM: Hands-on trial in computer lab with lending library
PLACE: The Family Support Center of New Jersey, Lions Head Office Park, 35 Beaverson Blvd., Bldg 11, Brick, NJ 08723

This Workshop is also being offered again FOR SENIORS on the following date:

DATE: Tuesday, August 28, 2012
TIME: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM Overview & presentation
3:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Hands-on trial in computer lab with lending library
PLACE: The Family Support Center of New Jersey, Lions Head Office Park, 35 Beaverson Blvd., Bldg 11, Brick, NJ 08723

Light refreshments will be available
Please RSVP to Janine Bedford Sims at 732-747-5310, ext. 111. Seating is limited.

For more information, you may also visit: http://www.frainc.org/techconnection/workshops.html

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy has announced its first disability-related application challenge, which is designed to generate innovative tools that will improve employment opportunities and outcomes for people with disabilities.

Nearly 22 years after the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act and 39 years after the passage of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, people with disabilities continue to be employed at much lower levels than those without disabilities. The goal of the app challenge is to promote recruitment resources for employers, develop job training and skill-building tools for job seekers, facilitate employment-related transportation options and expand information communication technology accessibility.

Submissions should provide access to important data and resources; attract users with different skill sets and language preferences; be accessible (that is, compatible and interoperable with assistive technology commonly used by individuals with disabilities, such as screen reading and speech recognition software); and consider partnerships that will ensure sustainability of the app. In addition, they should be targeted toward a variety of audiences such as students, teachers, employers, career counselors and workforce professionals, as well as individuals with disabilities working or seeking work at all levels in a variety of salaried and hourly jobs.

Awards with cash prizes — totaling $10,000 — will be given to the top three submissions, including the grand prize Innovation Award, the second prize People’s Choice Award, and the third prize Above and Beyond Accessibility Award. Contestants must register for the contest on the Challenge.gov website by creating an account at http://challenge.gov/users/login. Each registrant will receive a confirmation email and may then enter a submission via the “Post a Submission” tab at http://disability.challenge.gov.

Submissions must be entered between May 23 at 12 a.m. EDT and Aug. 23 at 11:59 p.m. EDT.

For more information, please visit ODEP’s website at: http://www.dol.gov/odep

Eleven-year-old John Hudson Dilgen of Staten Island, New York is one of the thousands from the community of people with disabilities expected to attend Abilities Expo on Friday, May 4-6, 2012 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center in Edison, New Jersey. While attendees with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals will all enjoy free admission and an impressive line-up of exhibits, workshops, celebrities, events and activities, John and his family will also receive the gift of independence. Thanks to the joint efforts of Ride-Away, the Cub Scouts of America and Man vs. Food host Adam Richman, the Dilgen family will be presented with an accessible van on Saturday, May 5th at 10:00 am outside the convention center.

John was born with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), a rare disorder that affects 1 in 50,000 people and causes the skin to blister and tear at even the slightest touch, bump or fall. In particular, John has a collagen 7 deficiency in which the layers of skin actually slide off. When he wakes up each day, his family and caregivers assess the damage that he did to his fragile skin during the night, and clean and bandage the wounds which cover 50% of his body. John uses a wheelchair and blisters also affect is internal organs, hands, feet, mouth, and on difficult days, his eyes.

“We are thrilled to play a part in helping to change John’s life, as well as the lives of everyone who attends Abilities Expo,” said David Korse, president and CEO of Abilities Expo. “The Expo provides people of all ages and disabilities–whether it’s physical, learning, developmental or sensory–access to life-enhancing technologies, education, resources and fun. Most of all, it’s a celebration of what you can do, not what you can’t.”

Attendees at Abilities Expo will experience cutting-edge products and services for people with a wide range of disabilities. They will find mobility products, devices for people with developmental disabilities, medical equipment, home accessories, essential services, low-cost daily living aids, products for people with sensory impairments and much more. The Assistive Technology Pavilion, anchored by the New Jersey Assistive Technology Center AT Showcase, will feature the latest AT products for people of all abilities to experience hands-on.

A series of compelling, informative workshops which address pressing disability issues will be offered free-of-charge to all attendees on Friday, May 4th and Saturday, May 5th. Our popular travel and home modification sessions will take place on both days. Other workshops will focus on employment, PT for kids, social interactions, seating, finding the correct mobility device and that is just for starters.

Abilities Expo does not merely inform, it engages and it entertains. Attendees can learn some hip-hop and ballroom wheelchair dancing moves and play a host of different adaptive sports. And the kids will love the face painting.

On May 4th, be a part of the first annual Voices From The Net event, a free gathering of worldwide disability rights advocates, bloggers, supporters and Expo attendees sharing their experiences and fostering community. This event is brought to you by the founders of DisabledAccessDenied.com, where attendees can pre-register.

Abilities Expo participants can bring their old cell phones, iPhones, iPods or iPads to donate to the Gift a Voice Project, a program that refurbishes or recycles this equipment so that they can be used by people with communication disabilities.

Admission is free and show hours will be Friday 11 am to 5 pm, Saturday 11 am to 5 pm and Sunday 11 am to 4 pm. Complimentary loaner scooters and wheelchair repair will also be available onsite during show hours.

For more information, visit www.abilitiesexpo.com/newyork . Attendees may pre-register online, or register onsite when they arrive.

For this entire article: Eleven Year-Old Staten Island Child to Receive Free Accessible Van

Check out this 30 second PSA that explains what ATAC is about.  Feel free to share with your friends!

This is a simplified version of the steps one parent took in getting an iPad covered by private insurance:

1. Check your medical benefits for your “Durable Medical Coverage.” (Mine covered 50%, but since we had already met our out-of-pocket max, they covered at 100%)

2. Phone your insurance company and ask, “Please assign me to a case manager that is experienced with special needs children.”

3. After you are provided a case manager, explain that you need the iPad as an augmentative communication device INCLUDING the Proloquo2go App (or TouchChat, OneVoice, TapToTalk, etc.) Provide comparison costs to a more expensive system such as the Dynavox, and remind them that you are opting for a more cost-effective device. Focus on Proloquo2go (or your chosen Aug Comm app) and that it is being introduced by Speech Therapists and OT’s in public schools for special needs kids, as well as in private therapy. Be sure to ask the case manager for all the necessary approval codes and coverage information so you are aware and comfortable with any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur. They may tell you “NO” at this point. If they do, ask them to email or fax you a letter of denial immediately.

4. Find supporting documentation and case studies to include with your claim. Google articles on “iPads for children with special needs” or “benefits for children with [your child’s specific condition] and iPads,” etc.

5. Copy your most recent speech evaluation and IEP if it indicates anything helpful. And, have every doctor, therapist, school personnel or anyone else write a letter supporting your child’s need for an “Augmentative Communication device such as the iPad with Proloquo2go.”

The more information you can provide, the less likely they will argue against the need. My personal insurance required that I pay for the device and then submit a claim form for reimbursement.

When submitting your Claim for Reimbursement:

1) What you purchased,

2) What is was for

3) How it should be coded and

4) That it should be treated as an IN NETWORK provider.

Include the notes (Name and Dates/Time of phone calls) from your conversation with your case manager.

Supporting Documents from Google, etc.

Letters from Doctors, Speech Therapists, etc.

Receipt of the Device and the AugCom App

For more information about this topic: 5 Tips for Getting iPad Covered by Insurance

Kurzweil Educational Systems has unveiled Firefly, a new Web-based resource designed to improve student literacy by offering access from anywhere to digital, text-based material.

Firefly works with existing Kurzweil 3000 software by extending its reach in accordance with Universal Design for Learning principles, an educational framework geared toward developing flexible learning environments for individual learners first defined by the Center for Applied Special Technology.
Access to texts is available anywhere along with literacy support tools that include control over pacing, an ability to highlight text, and the ability to work in conjunction with Dragon, Naturally Speaking. Firefly also offers support for English language learners.

Features of Firefly include:
■ Use of the Common Core Standards for English Language Arts
■ Ability for students to interact with text
■ Accessibility for students with a range of disabilities
■ Compatibility with OS X and Windows.

The release joins an existing Kurzweil product line that includes text-to-speech software and other assistive technology to students in Grade 3 through college.

Information about Kurzweil Educational Systems is available at: https://kurzweiledu.com

For the entire press release: Kurzweil Releases Firefly

Sarah was diagnosed with motor neurone disease or MND in 2000, and had become dependent on other people for everything, having lost the use of her hands and the ability to speak as the condition progressed.  Sarah had been using a laptop controlled via a switch on her chin. This was causing Sarah severe neck pain, and she was concerned that she would be unable to communicate in this way for much longer.

Now, thanks to a Tobii PCEye installed by RSLSteeper, which works by converting eye movement to a mouse cursor on screen, Sarah is able to control her computer and communicate with the outside world again.  Sarah has also had a program installed on her PC, which gives her control over the television and media center, as well as switching on and turning off lights, all through eye control. Sarah had been unable to complete these tasks without assistance for many years.

RSLSteeper provides a comprehensive range of assistive technology solutions designed to enable the elderly and severely disabled to live more independently and safely at home.  The company is accredited to ISO 9001 for Environmental Control System design and can offer advice on appropriate devices and systems for each customer. Its dedicated team of specialist engineers can install, maintain and service these systems, and can provide on-site training to users and their carers.

For further information, please visit www.assistive-technology.co.uk

For further information on the eye gaze technology, visit http://www.tobii.com/pceye

Eden Autism Services recently unveiled an $8 million, 30,000-square-foot building in Plainsboro Township’s Princeton Forrestal Village for a new school for children and adolescents, aged 3-21, with autism. After six years of planning, and one year of construction, Eden officials cut the ribbon on the new national headquarters Wednesday. Fifty-nine students who formerly went to the school on Route 1 were moved into the building in October. Incorporated in 1975, Eden began as a small school with fewer than 20 children. Since then, an adult services program has been added.

Eden currently serves 100 adults with autism during a day program at the Clayton Center in West Windsor. It also funds 11 group homes and four supervised apartments. Thirteen students are expected to graduate from the school in Plainsboro within the next two years, so there will be an opportunity for additional students to enter the program. The school has capacity for 80 students.

Students who need extra assistance are chosen from local school districts and there’s no cost to parents. Tuition is covered by school districts and allocations from the state’s Division of Developmental Disabilities. Private tuition and fees cover about 85 percent of the cost to operate Eden, the school’s spokeswoman, Aileen Kornblatt, said. The remainder comes from an annual fund supported by parents and members of the community, the company’s capital campaign — called Nurturing Today, Embracing Tomorrow — as well as corporate donations and special events.

The new school also has a commercial kitchen where students learn how to prepare meals. At a model convenience store, in operation every day, the children learn retail skills — stocking shelves, making coffee and selling snacks. Older students learn office skills such as laminating and using copy machines and other equipment, preparing them for employment when they graduate.

There are seven highly specialized classrooms, with about 60 school faculty members, operating on a one-to-one or a two-to-one student-teacher ratio, based on individual needs. Speech therapy is coupled with the latest technology, including iPads. A camera is installed in each classroom so parents can view their children from home if they live too far to visit. The classrooms also feature small “breakout rooms” for more personalized sessions.

In the future, Eden plans to offer additional activities, such as field trips to local farms, where students will learn to ride and care for horses.

For more information about Eden Autism Services, visit www.edenautism.org, or call (609) 987-0099.

To read the entire article: Eden Opens New School

Unlike many other wheelchair donation programs and related charities, the Darrell Gwynn Foundation specializes in high-tech, customized wheelchairs. While standard manual wheelchairs are valued at approximately $350, the wheelchairs provided by the Darrell Gwynn Foundation are valued anywhere from $6,000 to $40,000 depending on the medical needs of the recipient.  The higher-valued wheelchairs are equipped with tilt and recline systems, seat elevators, drive trains, high-tech seating systems, rugged tires and suspension systems, all designed to dramatically improve each recipient’s quality of life. 

The Darrell Gwynn Foundation donates approximately 35-50 wheelchairs every year to deserving individuals. In order to apply for our program, recipients and their families must demonstrate a medical and financial need for the new wheelchair. The application process is free and our pre-application form can be found below. 

For many recipients, the Darrell Gwynn Foundation is their last resort. They have tried nearly everything to obtain a desperately needed wheelchair for themselves or their child, but without success. They were denied by insurance companies or Medicare and simply do not have the resources available to provide for what their child needs without assistance. The individual is living in a broken or ill-fitting wheelchair and in some cases, they have no wheelchair at all.   

For younger recipients, these wheelchairs enable a child to do things many of us take for granted such as going to school without an aide, keeping up with friends when they start to run, playing in a park with grass, or just being able to move around without having to ask for help. For older recipients, these chairs enable them to become fully engaged with their community, be it going back to work, seeing their families more often, shopping on their own, or taking their dog for a walk. 

Darrell Gwynn’s Wheelchair Donation Program is exclusively for those individuals who do not have the resources to purchase a wheelchair and who have had their claims for a wheelchair denied by a health insurance provider.  The majority of these requests for wheelchairs come from children, teenagers, and adults who are living in constant pain – every day of their life.  The costs of wheelchairs covered by insurance companies often do not cover options such as motors, wheel-assist features, chair tilting, high-tech cushioning, etc.  Many times, insurance will not cover the costs of even a basic chair replacement. 

The Darrell Gwynn Foundation’s Wheelchair Donation Program presents a wheelchair to a deserving individual on average of one to two times a month.  Their goal is to expand our Wheelchair Donation Program to a national scale and provide at least 100 wheelchairs every year by the year 2013.

To learn more, see: Darrell Gwynn Foundation

To apply: Wheelchair Application Checklist

The Universit of Athens has offered free accessible online software about the available solutions of assistive technology.  The included applications are published after they have been installed and tested by the University of Athens’ Speech and Accessibility Laboratory.  For each free AT software, the available application is documented and the following fields of information are filled: application name, developer, version, AT category(ies), related disability(ies), description, operating system(s), installation procedure, settings and hints, download links, and a screenshot.

Also, users have three ways of accessing the software applications:

• Browse by Disability: lists the related applications based on the chosen disability (Speech, Hearing, Motor, Blindness and Low Vision).
• Browse by Category: lists the applications by type of AT software category (Voice Recognition, Screen Daisy Reader, Calculator, Mouse Cursor, Click Helper, Virtual Keyboard, Camera Mouse, Alternative Communication, Text To Speech, Screen Magnifier, Braille Translator, Web Browser, Mouse Emulator, Contrast Adjustment, Keyboard Shortcuts, Voice Mail, Clock, Video Call).
• Show All Applications: simply lists the whole inventory’s applications in an alphabetical order.

To browse this website, see:  Freeware Assistive Technology Software

People who evaluate and fit patients for wheelchairs say many requests for more expensive, motorized chairs with multiple custom features are being denied because insurers and Medicare officials are worried about high costs and fraud. Doctors, physical therapists, and patients must appeal the decision, or else the patients give up and accept lesser chairs.

“It’s gotten to the point where words are not enough to convince the medical directors” of insurers, said assistive technology professional Robert Townsend of Jeff Quip, a Boothwyn company that supplies complex chairs.

Experts said patients who fight – especially those who appeal in person – often can get the chair they need, but during the bureaucratic battle, they must make do with loaner chairs or lie in bed.

People who have battled for chairs say both public programs such as Medicare and private insurers are balking. The delays likely flow from Medicare’s attempts to curtail fraud in the motorized wheelchair market; other insurers follow its lead. Medicare’s response to companies that advertised widely on TV and amped up demand for scooters is a set of rules that Donald Clayback, executive director of the industry group the National Coalition for Assistive Technology and Rehab Technology, calls “onerous” and “overly aggressive.”

Insurers deny that they are stalling or have increased denials for high-end chairs recently, but say they must help prevent fraud and spend money wisely. “It is often a challenge,” said Don Liss, medical director for Independence Blue Cross. He said IBC processes 22.2 million claims a year and had denied 38 claims for complex wheelchairs last year. He called the “flat-out” denial rate “fleetingly small.”

Medicare, which requires patients to have a face-to-face visit with a doctor before submitting a wheelchair claim, will pay only for chairs that patients need to function in their home, and private insurers have followed suit. They won’t pay for more powerful chairs, for example, if someone needs one to go to work or get around a college campus.

Liss said insurance typically does not cover accessories that are not primarily medical in nature, such as interfaces for turning lights on or tray tables. Patients can pay out of pocket for accessories that aren’t covered.

People who fit patients for chairs at area rehabilitation hospitals say they have a particularly hard time getting approvals for seats that go up and down so that patients can access work surfaces of different heights. Seats that tilt to prevent pressure ulcers can also be hard to get. Estimates of denial rates varied widely, but people involved in sending claims said they were up markedly in the last two years.

For the entire article: Insurers Put Brakes on Wheelchair Approvals

The American Council of the Blind (ACB) announced it will be working with Google Inc. to survey individuals who are blind, visually impaired, and deaf-blind to better understand how they use computers and assistive technology to access information.

Respondents will be able to complete the survey by either telephone or Web. Survey data will be used to better understand how blind users interact with the Web, which assistive technologies they find most useful, and how they make decisions about whether to switch or upgrade tools.

At the conclusion of the survey in October, seven gift certificates will be awarded to participants who wish to take part in a random drawing. The first winner will receive a gift certificate from Amazon.com in the amount of $50. The remaining 6 participants will each receive a $25 gift certificate from Amazon.com. Winners will be contacted via e-mail or telephone.

The survey, which will run through mid-September, is available at http://www.acb.org/googlesurvey.

About the American Council of the Blind – The American Council of the Blind is the largest consumer-based organization of blind and visually impaired Americans advocating for the rights of blind Americans. Comprised of more than 70 affiliates across the United States, the organization is dedicated to making it possible for blind and visually impaired Americans to participate fully in all aspects of American society. For more information, visit http://www.acb.org

Read more at: ACB and Google Conduct Study

Companies working to create technology to make life easier for people with disabilities are getting a leg up through a series of new federal grants.

The U.S. Department of Education is awarding 16 grants worth $75,000 each to 11 small businesses. Recipients of the grants include companies designing a foot-operated computer mouse, a personal scheduling system and a special Facebook interface specifically for those who have intellectual disability.

“These projects are designed to help people with disabilities maximize their job productivity and economic self-sufficiency,” said Alexa Posny, assistant secretary for special education and rehabilitative services at the Education Department. “This is the first step of research and development in several areas that will enhance independent living and employment for individuals with disabilities.”

The grants are part of a two-step offering. If after six months the projects are still considered worthy, businesses can receive up to an additional $500,000 to continue work for another two years, federal education officials said.

To read the entire article, see: Feds Spur AT Development

A half-dozen apps with names like “T2 MoodTracker,” ‘’PTSD Coach” and “Breathe2Relax” have been developed by the Pentagon and Veterans Affairs Department, but not to diagnose illness or replace psychiatric counseling. Rather, the apps offer at-your-fingertips information about what the military calls “invisible wounds” of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan — and techniques for managing the symptoms.

The newest, released in May, was a joint Pentagon-VA effort — PTSD Coach. It helps self-assess symptoms, gives step-by-step instructions in muscle relaxation and breathing, helps users create a phone list of people to call when they need support and helps vets contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline in an emergency.

There’s also an app for health care providers that includes definitions, causes and severity ratings for mild traumatic brain injury — or concussions — suffered by so many troops from roadside bombs and other explosions. Another for doctors treating PTSD is expected in the coming months. Officials hope the apps for troops, vets and their families will encourage more people to get professional help and will be used by others to supplement professional therapy.

In a vast and unprecedented wartime effort that has struggled to keep up with troop needs, the government in recent years has increased mental health screening, hired more psychiatric staff, sent mental health survey teams directly to the battlefields, launched new research and started or bolstered myriad programs from suicide prevention to resilience training to family counseling. They’ve promoted the efforts with booklets, boot camp training, interactive websites, social media, call-in phone lines and more.

Because of the anonymity, there is little feedback on the program that started last summer with MoodTracker. But officials said they plan to find volunteers in the future to help with a study on the program’s effectiveness. For now, what’s known is that MoodTracker was downloaded about 17,000 times since it was introduced. Since PTSD Coach was released in May, it has been downloaded about 11,000 times in 37 countries, including Mexico, Latvia and Japan.

Although the app is particularly tailored to the needs of active-duty troops and veterans, some users may also be PTSD sufferers with no military background. Officials believe it’s likely some are civilians who’ve had other types of trauma, such as from physical or sexual assaults, car accidents or natural disasters.

For the entire article see: Troops, Vets Get Smartphone Help

The National Center on Physical Activity and Disability’s Lifetime Sports website offers a wealth of information on playing and adapting nearly a dozen sports, from bocce and golf to sled hockey and Tai Chi.  This website offers tutorials on how games are played, videos of players playing with adaptations, and allows users to find equipment suppliers in their area.  Lifetime Sports also features information for children through adults, with guides for parents on supporting youth recreation and promoting active lifestyles for their children.

Also, NCPAD provides a state-by-state and town-by-town program directory of accessible and adaptive recreation and fitness programs.  Find everything from adaptive sailing in Vermont, to deer hunting in Arkansas, and golf in California.  The directory is also a summer camps resource.

NCPAD is a program of the Dept. of Disability and Human Development at the University of Illinois–Chicago and funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

For more information, see:  NCPAD’s Lifetime Spoorts Guide or NCPAD’s Program Directory

Morgan’s Wonderland, a new 25-acre theme park for children and adults with special needs in San Antonio, Texas, grew out of an incident Gordon Hartman witnessed.

His 16-year-old daughter Morgan – for whom the park is named – has a severe cognitive delay. One day some years ago, he observed her watching other children who were playing in a pool. He knew she wanted to join them, but because of the girl’s inability to communicate properly, she couldn’t.

For the former real estate developer, it was a defining moment, inspiring him to create a place where the words ‘couldn’t', ‘shouldn’t’ and ‘can’t’ weren’t part of the vocabulary.

Morgan’s Wonderland features 25 attractions all tailored to suit a wide range of cognitive and physical needs. Admission is free for individuals with special needs and $5 for family members and caregivers. The attractions include: the Sensory Village with its abundance of light, touch and sound. The carousel can lift wheelchairs up and down, and off-road vehicles are fully accessible to wheelchair-users. There’s a music garden, water play area, pirate’s island, an amphitheater and the Wonderland Express.

The park also offers guests special bracelets with microchips so they can keep track of children who may wander off. The radio frequency technology enables users to check on children from screens located all across the park.

For the full article and more on Morgan’s Wonderland, see: Texas Theme Park Opens for People with Special Needs

Thousands of people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, seniors, wounded veterans and healthcare professionals will attend Abilities Expo on Friday, May 20, through Sunday, May 22, 2011 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center. Admission is free and show hours are Friday 11 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 11 am to 4 pm.

Abilities Expo has put together an impressive line-up of exhibits, workshops, experts, events and activities to appeal to the full spectrum of people with disabilities, from children to seniors and everyone in between. Free loaner scooters and free wheelchair repair will also be available onsite during show hours.

“It is our privilege to provide this forum for the Community of people with disabilities in the New York Metro area to come together and gain access to life-enhancing technologies, education and resources,” said David Korse, president and CEO of Abilities Expo. “Between the adaptive events, the interactive assistive technology pavilion, the dynamic workshops and the thousands of products and services on display … this is a must-attend event for everyone in the Community.”

Attendees will experience cutting-edge products and services for people with a wide range of disabilities. They will find mobility products, devices for people with developmental disabilities, medical equipment, home accessories, essential services, low-cost daily living aids, products for people with sensory impairments and much more. The Assistive Technology Pavilion will feature the latest AT products for people with wide ranges of physical, sensory and developmental disabilities and is anchored by the New Jersey Assistive Technology Center AT Showcase. The showcase will not only feature an array of breakthrough assistive technologies, it will allow Expo visitors to experience them hands-on.

A series of compelling workshops which address pressing disability issues will be offered free-of-charge to all attendees. Sessions will focus on travel, disability in the workforce, assistive technology, sex and relationships, augmentative and alternative communication, mobility solutions, Medicaid for durable medical equipment, financial planning and that is just for starters. In addition, there will be an exciting seminar which details the groundbreaking clinical trials which are currently testing therapies to restore function in people with spinal cord injuries.

Abilities Expo does not merely inform, it engages and it entertains. Attendees of all abilities can learn some hip hop wheelchair dancing moves, experience martial arts, enjoy canine assistance demos, play adaptive sports and see style transcend disability in the fashion showcase. Children will also have the opportunity to transform into their favorite animals or characters with free facepainting.

Also, Abilities Expo participants can bring their old cell phones, iPhones, iPods or iPads to donate to the Gift a Voice Project, a program that refurbishes or recycles this equipment so that they can be used by people with communication disabilities.

For more information, visit: www.abilitiesexpo.com/newyork.

The CVS Caremark Charitable Trust seeks to support organizations that are most effective at creating positive and measurable outcomes for children with disabilities and providing healthcare services for underserved populations. Last year, the trust awarded grants to more than seventy organizations for programs focused on autism, technology, life and workforce skills, and access to health care.

For this year’s program, the trust will accept online applications from May 1 to June 15, 2011, for applications targeting children with disabilities; and from July 1 to August 15, 2011, for applications targeting health care services for underserved populations.

Inspired by a belief that children of all abilities should have equal access to educational, social, medical, and therapeutic services in order to live a healthy and happy life, the trust seeks applications from organizations that are providing the following support services and programs for children under the age of 21 and their families: early intervention — therapeutic and support services designed to meet the needs of infants and toddlers who have a developmental delay or disability; parental support and education programs that educate, prepare, and assist parents in the care giving and support of their children; assistive technology programs that provide access to equipment or training on assistive technologies that help children learn, communicate, and thrive; and programs that support the development of social skills and/or independent living skills, including camp programs.

CVS Caremark is most interested in funding proposals where support can help an organization expand or enhance an existing program with proven success, enable organizations to support innovative new approaches that produce positive outcomes for targeted populations, or support one-time capital needs (excluding bricks and mortar).

Applications are invited from nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in U.S. locations where CVS Caremark has a business presence (all states except Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming).

One-year grants will range from $10,000 to $50,000. Previous grantees are eligible to apply in the following year if they can demonstrate significant positive outcomes.

For complete program guidelines and the application form, visit the CVS Caremark Charitable Trust website.

Columbia University and JCC Manhattan are providing an Assistive Technology Support Program for children with special needs. This support program will consist of a series of free informational sessions, funded through Time Warner Cable. The program will be made available to school-age children (early intervention to college bound) and their families. Sessions will address how assistive technologies can help students address learning, communication, vision, hearing, and physical access needs in the classroom. This program provides information to help parents become informed advocates and consumers.

Sessions will be held on Sundays from May 1 through August 28 at a variety of times throughout the morning and afternoon.

For more information and/or to schedule a free appointment, contact Mark Surabian at ATHelp@me.com or call 917-586-8000. Please be sure to indicate that you are interested in scheduling a consultation at the JCC in Manhattan.

The JCC Manhattan is located at:
334 Amsterdam Avenue at West 76th Street
New York, NY 10023
Multimedia Center (computing center), Lower Level Two Basement

For more information: AT Support Program for Families

Softeq Development Corporation announces the completion of the Durateq® Assistive Technology System offering assistive listening and audio description at the New River Gorge National River (U.S. National Park Service) Canyon Rim Visitor Center in Lansing, West Virginia. The New River Gorge team wanted to make their visitor center experience accessible to all guests and partnered with Design & Integration, Inc. and Softeq for their solution.

Originally developed for the Walt Disney World theme park, the Durateq Assistive Technology Version (ATV) handheld devices with its ALiCE (Assistive Listening and Captioning Engine) software makes the visitor center experience accessible to anyone requiring audio or visual assistance. The system provides audio description (AD) for visitors who are blind or have low vision, and assistive listening (ALS) for visitors with hearing loss. The audio content is triggered automatically, synchronized with the videos in the visitor center’s theatre, and even provides some navigational assistance.

The Durateq ATV is the most advanced assistive handheld solution available today that helps public venues meet Title II and Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.

Softeq Development Corporation is headquartered in Houston, TX. Softeq specializes in software services, system integration, product development, and assistive technology for Fortune 500 companies worldwide. For more information, visit www.softeq.com.

For the entire article:  National Park Service Adds AT

On April 6, 2011, the FCC issued an order to set up the first ever National Deaf-Blind Equipment Distribution Program (NDBEDP) to enable low-income individuals who are deaf-blind to access 21st century communications services. Established as a pilot program, the NDBEDP will help ensure that deaf-blind individuals have access to the Internet, and advanced communications, including interexchange services and advanced telecommunications and information services. The Order is the first of several we are expecting this year to implement the provisions of the 21st Century Communications & Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (“21st CVAA”).

Funded with $10 million allocated from the Interstate Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS) Fund each year, the FCC said that the best approach is to establish a two-year pilot program with the option of extending this for a third year. The FCC will assess the program then to see what is most efficient and effective for administering the NDBEDP on a permanent basis. Under the NDBEDP pilot program, the Commission will certify and provide funding to one entity in each state to distribute equipment to low-income individuals who are deaf-blind. Here are some of the NDBEDP details:

• Of the $10 million, up to $500,000 is set aside for national outreach efforts.
• Each state will initially receive a minimum initial funding allocation of $50,000, with the balance of the available funds allocated in proportion to each state’s population.
• Certified programs must submit documentation to support claims for reimbursement for NDBEDP equipment and related services, up to each state’s funding allocation.
• Certified programs must submit reports on their activities and expenses every six months, disclose potential conflicts of interest, and conduct annual independent audits.
• To be certified, entities must apply for certification to receive funding support under the NDBEDP pilot program within 60 days of the effective date of the rules. The Commission will certify only one entity for each state.
• Consumer eligibility is limited to individuals who are deaf-blind as defined in the Helen Keller National Center Act.
• Because of the unusually high medical and disability-related costs incurred by people who are deaf-blind, the low-income eligibility threshold is set at 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• Equipment for distribution includes specialized and off-the-shelf equipment, separately or in combination, as long as it meets the needs of the deaf-blind individual and makes communications services covered under the CVAA accessible.
• Costs of the equipment distributed, warranties, maintenance, repairs, and refurbishing will also be covered, if reasonable.
• Also covered are related services, if reasonable, such as state and local outreach efforts, individual assessments of a deaf-blind person’s communications equipment needs, equipment installation, and individualized training of consumers on how to use the equipment.

For the entire article, see:  www.coataccess.org/node/9986 or go to the FCC website at: www.fcc.gov/cgb/dro/headlines.html

Tracy Thresher and Larry Bissonnette share their stories about life with Autism and how they communicate with Augmentative Communication Devices in the documentary, Wretches and Jabberers.  This film is about spreading the message that people of all abilities have ideas to share, thoughts to discuss and the desire to participate fully in life.  Tracy and Larry are on a mission to change people’s attitudes about disability, intelligence and communication.

For the trailer to the film, see: Wreckers & Jabberers
For more information, visit the website for the film here and read an article about the film here.

April is Autism Awareness month.  For more information, see: National Autism Society

A complaint filed Tuesday with the federal government accuses New York University and Northwestern University of discriminating against blind students by adopting Google e-mail and other programs that aren’t fully compatible with technology that translates written words into speech.

The National Federation of the Blind has requested a Justice Department investigation into the schools’ use of Gmail and other Google programs, saying that requiring students to use them violates the Americans with Disabilities Act. The Baltimore-based group is also asking other colleges not to adopt the software until it’s accessible to all students and faculty.

The federation said that some Google products are partially accessible to blind users, but are difficult to use without assistance from a person who can see the screen. With Gmail, for example, the process of creating an account is the biggest problem, with other glitches in navigating while relying on screen readers, said Chris Danielsen, a spokesman for the blind federation. The group said there are also problems with Google Calendar, Google Groups and other programs.

Northwestern and NYU recently adopted the free suite of Google Apps for Education for campus e-mail and other classroom services used by students to collaborate on assignments. The blind federation says that a significant number of U.S. colleges are outsourcing their e-mail to Google. In such cases, Google often provides hosting services for campus e-mail. Schools are covered by the federal law protecting rights of the disabled, while Google may not have the same obligations with products it creates.

Last June, the U.S. Departments of Justice and Education issued a letter to college presidents requiring schools that use Kindles and other e-book readers in the classroom to make sure the gadgets have accommodations for blind and vision-impaired students. The federal government examined the campus e-reader technology after a blind student sued Arizona State University over use of the Kindle and was joined by the National Federation of the Blind and the American Council of the Blind. Amazon.com Inc. announced changes last year to the Kindle to make it more accessible for blind and vision-impaired users.

For the entire article: NYU and Northwestern Discriminate Against Students
For the Google Apps Demonstration: www.nfb.org/nfb/googleaccessibilityvideos.asp

Two new products will allow people who are hard of hearing or deaf to have the same mobile options as their hearing counterparts. On Monday January 31, 2011, at a news conference conducted in American Sign Language at Rochester Institute of Technology’s National Technical Institute for the Deaf, technology company Sorenson Communications announced ntouch PC and ntouch Mobile. They turn laptops and cellphones into videophones with the same Video Relay Service technology now used by deaf individuals to place calls.

Sorenson is the largest provider of Video Relay Service, which allows deaf individuals to place calls using a videophone device called the VP-200. The VP-200 sits on top of a television set, and an interpreter appears on the TV screen to speak English to the hearing party, then relays their answers through sign language to the deaf individual.

With ntouch PC, a computer or laptop can be turned into a videophone. The software is free and works with any Internet or wi-fi connection. Ntouch Mobile is compatible with the HTC EVO phone on the Sprint network. It turns the cellphone into a videophone with features such as SignMail and e911. It even lets users set special vibration and flash patterns for different callers with the myRumble feature, essentially the equivalent of the ringtones hearing people use to identify callers.

The Americans with Disabilities Act mandates that individuals who are deaf or hard-of-hearing have access to products that are functionally equivalent to what the hearing community enjoys. Because it is a federal mandate, Sorenson is reimbursed by the Federal Communications Commission, allowing the company to provide services free of charge for deaf individuals.

For the entire article see: Devices Allow Mobility for Deaf Users

Livestrong.com offers some examples of assistive technology for fitness and specialized equipment to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities such as arthritis, multiple sclerosis, stroke, or spinal cord injuries.  Below are the recommendations for adapted fitness equipment.

AT for Aerobic Fitness
For aerobic fitness, adapted stationary bikes offer motor-assisted pedaling for individuals with neurological impairments. If you prefer a treadmill, you can attach handrails to assist with balance. There are also products similar to a mini-trampoline that provide partial support of your body weight through a sling seat and back strap.

AT for Resistance Training
Individuals with disabilities can often participate in upper-body exercises using standard weights and resistance machines. If you have difficulty grasping, you can get an exercise glove or a holding mitt that uses a hook-and-loop strap to help you hold the weight or bar. Specific machines exist for people with spinal cord injury and wheelchair users to improve upper body strength. For lower-body resistance training, there are resistance band systems, equipment for aquatic exercise, and products that provide functional electrical stimulation.

Other AT Devices
If you use a wheelchair, you may be interested in participating in wheelchair sports, such as basketball, tennis or cycling. A variety of sport-specific chairs are available. You can also get wheelchair gloves to assist with grasp and to reduce wear-and-tear on your skin. For water exercise, AT is available in the form of aquatic lifts to help you in and out of the pool, special flotation devices and even water wheelchairs.

Read more at:  www.livestrong.com/article/338968-assistive-technology-for-fitness/#ixzz1A0Nmx4Hl

“Tools of the Trade,” an online blog written by Advancing Opportunities’ Assistive Technology Department, offers an ongoing web-based, discussion of assistive technology topics. Jeanette Van Houten recently wrote, “My Personal Experience Living Life Silently,” which chronicles her own experiences in struggling to communicate when a short-term illness impairs her ability to speak. This blog entry offers insight into the world of many individuals with disabilities that affect their abilities to communicate verbally. Ms. Van Houten also provides an account of her experience in using forms of alternative communication and the impact of technology on communication.

For the entire blog entry: “My Personal Experience Living Life Silently”

For more information on Advancing Opportunities: www.assistivetechnologycenter.org/

The Assistive Technology Advocacy Center and Jamie Arasz Prioli, RESNA ATP, present a brief tutorial demonstrating the onscreen keyboard feature built within the Windows7 operating system. This video takes the viewer step by step through the process of accessing the tool and customizing the keyboard to include features, such as text prediction and settings for scanning and hovering over the keys.

To view the video and learn more about the Windows7 onscreen keyboard, go to: Accessibility in Windows7

Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic (RFB&D), the nation’s largest provider of educational audio textbooks, announced that its entire collection is now accessible on Mac as well as Windows operating systems through the introduction of RFB&D ReadHear.

Through funding provided by the U.S. Department of Education, RFB&D will license the player to individual members for free (one copy per member, renewable after one year.) A new dual-platform software player enables users to access the entire library of RFB&D DAISY-formatted content on both Mac and Windows systems. The new technology will also support RFB&D’s developing generation of content containing digital text and audio.

A brief video product demonstration of the new RFB&D ReadHear solution is posted at: www.rfbd.org/readhear. The page is a one-stop info hub for Mac OS and Windows users, featuring technical specifications, “How To” and “Quick Start” documents; and an FAQ.

About Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic

Founded in 1948, RFB&D serves more than 270,000 K-12, college and graduate students, as well as veterans and lifelong learners – all of whom cannot read standard print due to blindness, visual impairment, dyslexia, or other disability. RFB&D’s collection of more than 63,000 digitally recorded textbooks and literature titles – delivered through internet downloads, various assistive technology devices, and CD – is the largest of its kind in the world. RFB&D, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, is funded by grants from the U.S. Department of Education, state and local education programs, and the generous contributions of individuals, foundations and corporations. For more information, call (866) 732-3585 or visit www.rfbd.org .

For the full article: Audio Books Now Available to MAC Users

The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC) unveiled a state-of-the-art motor vehicle equipped with adaptive evaluation and training devices that will help promote independence and employment for people with disabilities. As part of American Reinvestment and Recovery Act’s (ARRA) Vocational Rehabilitation Grant to the MRC, the Commission received $155,000 in federal funding for the van.

The MRC’s Driver Evaluation and Training Program will use the van to determine the type of adaptive driving equipment needed by individuals with significant disabilities so that they can operate a vehicle safely. Individuals evaluated using technology in the new MRC van will also receive training on how to operate the vehicle and its adaptive equipment and technology. Previously, Massachusetts consumers had to travel out of state for driving evaluations or purchase a vehicle independently and wait for it to be modified before taking driving lessons. The state’s new vehicle will help consumers who need adaptive equipment determine their unique needs in order to live and work as independently as possible.

“After receiving my learner’s permit over a year ago, I have been anxiously waiting for the chance to get my license,” said Andrew Ivanov, an MRC client. “I’m overjoyed that there is a vehicle within Massachusetts that can give me the ability to drive and get my license. I would like to thank everyone involved for giving me the opportunity to start driving — I hope that after I get my license, I will have become a more independent and outgoing member of society.”

About the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC)
The Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission assists individuals with disabilities to live and work independently. The MRC is responsible for Vocational Rehabilitation Services, Community Services, and eligibility determination for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) federal benefits programs for Massachusetts citizens with disabilities. The MRC serves people with all types of disabilities except those who are blind, who are served through the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind. To learn more about MRC, please visit: www.mass.gov/mrc.

For the entire press release, see: MRC Unveils State-Of-The Art Vehicle

On November 22, 2010, Temple University’s Institute on Disabilities will host a mini course/lecture on web-based tools that are free or low cost. This course will focus on AT tools that can be used to support the three basic constructs of Universal Design for Learning–engagement, representation and expression.

Participants will learn about:
- Flexible, interactive tools such as Glogster, TarHeel Reader, Flickr, and VoiceThread
- Integrating multimedia resources, including those from Discovery Education, into a variety of online tools for student use
- How to use these tools to support students with a wide range of needs and abilities

Presenting this course will be Beth Poss, a Speech/Language Pathologist who specializes in Assistive and Instructional Technology and Chris Bugaj, a founding member of the assistive technology team at Loudoun County Public Schools in Virginia and an adjunct professor at George Mason University.

The course will be offered on:
Monday, November 22, 2010
Time: 9 a.m. to noon (8:30 a.m. registration)
Location: Temple University Main Campus
1755 N. 13th Street
Student Center, Room 200A
Philadelphia, PA 19122

Registration Deadline is November 18, 2010.

Registration for this event is FREE, but registration is required in advance.
Register online or call 215-204-1356 (voice/TTY).

For more information contact:
215-204-1356 (voice/TTY)
iod@temple.edu
http://disabilities.temple.edu/

Since its debut in April 2010, the iPad has become a popular therapeutic tool for people with disabilities of all kinds, though no one keeps track of how many are used this way, and studies are just getting under way to test its effectiveness, which varies widely depending on diagnosis.

A speech pathologist at Walter Reed Army Medical Center uses text-to-speech applications to give patients a voice. Christopher Bulger, a 16-year-old in Chicago who injured his spine in a car accident, used an iPad to surf the Internet during the early stages of his rehabilitation, when his hands were clenched into fists. “It was nice because you progressed from the knuckle to the finger to using more than one knuckle on the screen,” he said.

Parents of autistic children are using applications to teach them basic skills, like brushing teeth and communicating better.

For a mainstream technological device like the iPad to have been instantly embraced by the disabled is unusual. It is far more common for items designed for disabled people to be adapted for general use, like closed-captioning on televisions in gyms or GPS devices in cars that announce directions. Also, most mainstream devices do not come with built-ins like the iPad’s closed-captioning, magnification and audible readout functions — which were intended to keep it simple for all users, but also help disabled people.

The iPad is also, generally speaking, less expensive than computers and other gadgets specifically designed to help disabled people speak, read or write. While insurers usually do not cover the cost of mobile devices like the iPad because they are not medical equipment, in some cases they will pay for the applications that run on them.

Glenda Watson Hyatt, a blogger from British Columbia and woman with cerebral palsy, said that when she was having trouble chatting with friends at a bar recently, she pulled out her iPad to help communicate and felt normal. “People were drawn to it because it was a ‘recognized’ or ‘known’ piece of technology,” she wrote in a blog post reviewing the device.

For Owen Cain, whose disease is physical, not mental, the iPad has limitations, too. Moving his finger all the way across the keypad remains a challenge, and makes writing difficult. He has been experimenting with a variety of applications — Proloquo2Go, which allows him to touch an icon that prompts the device to speak things like, “I need to go to the bathroom”; Math Magic, which helps him practice arithmetic; and Animal Match, a memory game.

When Owen was about 8 weeks old, his mother noticed his right arm drooping. It led to a crushing diagnosis: the motor-neuron disease known as spinal muscular atrophy Type 1. A 2003 New York Times article about spinal muscular atrophy said his parents had been told Owen would be “paralyzed for his life, which doctors predicted would last no more than about two years.”

Owen will turn 8 on Nov. 11. While his condition is not expected to worsen, he is extremely sensitive to infection and once nearly died of pneumonia; three specialized therapists and a nurse help keep him alive.

Though he cannot speak, his parents have taught him to read, write and do math. He has an impish sense of humor and a love of “Star Wars.” “He’s a normal child trapped in a not normal body,” said his father, Hamilton Cain, 45, a book editor.

Since he received the iPad, Owen has been trying to read books, and playing around with apps like Air Guitar. And, one day, he typed out on the keypad, “I want to be Han Solo for Halloween.”

For the full article from the NY Times, see: iPad Opens World

The staff at Disability Rights New Jersey and the Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC) would like to express their condolences for the family and friends of Ron Costanzo, a former member of the ATAC Advisory. Ron died unexpectedly on Thursday, September 30, 2010 in a car accident that claimed the lives of three people. Ron had worked as consultant for Allies Inc. in Hamilton and also served as a member of the Governor’s Council on Disabilities. We remember Ron for his passion for helping others, his humor, and his contributions to the ATAC Advisory.

“The Illustrated Guide to Assistive Technology and Devices” by Suzanne Robitaille is a self-help tool for people with disabilities that enables readers to live more independently and enhance the quality of their lives. Amazon.com has recently rated this publication as the bestselling book on assistive technology.

The Guide is organized according to disability and easily explains the best type of device for a multiple situations, home, work, on the road, or at school.

Suzanne Robitaille, the founder and editor of Abledbody.com, is a writer, blogger and disability advocate who has real experience with disability. She lost her hearing at age four and grew up profoundly deaf. Through her company, abledbody, she also provides editorial and communications services, with a specialty in workplace disability issues. Abledbody was recently certified as a disability-owned business enterprise by the U.S. Business Leadership Network.

The Illustrated Guide to Assistive Technology and Devices is available in quality trade paperback for a list price of $19.95. It is published by Demos Health, distributed by Publishers Group West and is also available through Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, and all major bookstores and outlets.

For the entire press release see: The Illustrated Guide to AT Reaches #1

Dr. Elsa M. Orellano, Ph.D., OTR/L, ATP of Puerto Rico’s AT Program (PRATP) compiled the following Assistive Technology resources and strategies to help increase independence and minimize the joint stress and degeneration associated with writing and reading activities for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Writing
Angular Surfaces provide arm and forearm support while writing and help to keep a proper head and neck position. Pencil grips made of rubber or plastic provide a stable grip, increase writing coordination and precision, achieve a better pencil grip posture, and decrease the strength needed to manipulate writing tools. Foam, such as air conditioning pipe insulation or Styrofoam spheres, is effective for providing a better grip, and works better than wrapping a pencil with tape. On the market these items are available in different forms, so the student should have the opportunity to experiment with different types of pencil grips.

Carbon Paper allows the student to have a copy of the notes taken by other students in his or her class. This strategy helps compensate for writing difficulties.

Voice Recorders compensate for writing challenges, preventing joint stress on the hands. They can be used to record classes, document information, or task instructions. After class, the student can copy the recorded information without time pressure and with needed breaks to avoid hand pain and fatigue.
Portable Word Processor: Battery-based portable keyboards working as notepads. It has a limited information storage capability. The stored information can be downloaded onto a computer or it can be printed directly to a printer. Light weight and compact, these portable devices can substitute for the use of pencil and paper.

2. Computer Use
Abbreviation Text Expander Software: Type an abbreviation or series of abbreviations and the software expands it to the full word, phrase or sentence. Its constant use improves keyboard efficiency and helps to decrease the joint stress related to the constant use of a keyboard.

Word Prediction Software can be used with any application, but is commonly used with word processors. Type the first letters of a word and the software provides suggestions for your most frequently used words to complete it. The user then selects the desired word by its corresponding number or use of a function key. Word prediction software offers a menu with words already written, instead of words based on the first letters. The programs are useful to those who can type with precision the first letters of a word, can pay attention to two stimuli at the same time, and frequently write long words. Scientific evidence indicates that these programs significantly decrease repetitions while writing at the computer. They also have the potential to decrease joint stress, secondary to excessive repetitions using a keyboard.

Voice Recognition Software help users control some or all of a computer’s functions by voice command alone. Using the voice, the user can dictate documents or execute commands usually performed through the mouse or keyboard. To achieve efficient voice recognition, the user should receive training. Users need to supply a consistent pronunciation and be in a minimum noise location. These programs help to minimize the joint stress caused by the repetitive keyboard use.

Dwell Clicking Software automatically performs mouse click operations without physically putting pressure on the mouse buttons. This is useful for those who can use a mouse, trackball or any mouse alternative but get tired with continuous mouse clicks. This software helps to minimize fatigue caused by a continue use of a keyboard.

Touch pads are a mouse alternative that allow for mouse movements by dragging a fingertip across the pad’s surface. A quick tap is the same as a mouse click or double tap acts as a double click. These actions require minimum arm and finger movements, and eliminate extensive holding of a regular mouse. It also prevents static work of the arm and minimizes joint stress due to excessive use of a standard mouse.

Trackballs are a mouse alternative that allow for mouse movement by rotating a sphere with the fingers or hand. These actions require minimum arm and finger movements, and eliminate extensive holding of a regular mouse. They also prevent static work of the arm and minimize joint stress due to excessive use of a standard mouse.

2. Reading

Book and Document Holders prevent extensive holding of books and minimize muscles, tendons, and joint stress. An angular position of the book facilitates a proper neck and head posture. It also facilitates visual access to the material.

For more information and links to vendors, see: AT Progam News Blog

Microsoft and the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) invite users to create a short video presenting their story about how using Windows 7 has made new things possible or simplified everyday tasks.

ATIA encourages applicants to use music, humor, or other formats to share new and innovative ideas.

CONTEST DATES:
ATIA 2010 Chicago Conference Contest is open from August 19, 2010 – October 21, 2010

ATIA 2011 Orlando Conference Contest is open from November 18, 2010 – January 20, 2011

PRIZES:
Prizes will be awarded in the following categories:

ATIA 2010 Chicago Conference Attendees’ Choice Prize

ATIA 2011 Orlando Conference Attendees’ Choice’ Prize

One Grand Prize Winner will be announced at the Orlando 2011 Conference.

CRITERIA:
The (2) Conference Attendees’ Choice Prizes will be awarded to the individual with the highest number of votes received onsite for each conference. The votes will be made via ballots
provided onsite during the conference.

A Grand Prize Winner will be chosen from all contest submissions received over the course of both contests. The Grand prize winner will be chosen by a contest committee, with members selected by Microsoft.

LENGTH:
Videos should be anywhere from 30 seconds to 3 minutes in length.

ELIGIBILITY:
No conference admission purchase necessary to be eligible for Attendees’ Choice and Grand Prizes. All attendees including conference exhibitors and speakers are eligible to vote for best video.

MULTIPLE ENTRIES:
Individuals may enter both contests and enter multiple entries per contest.

VIDEO GUIDELINES:
If the video is of an individual other than you, please obtain permission before posting.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
Once you have uploaded your video/s to the ATIA Facebook page please complete a contest Application Form with details of your videos and your contact information.

For more information and to submit an application, go to:
www.atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3893

The Justice Department has announced four new Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) proposals addressing the accessibility of websites, the provision of captioning and video description in movies shown in theaters, accessible equipment and furniture, and the ability of 9-1-1 centers to take text and video calls from individuals with disabilities. The proposals are in the form of advance notices of proposed rulemaking, or ANPRMs, which provide information on these ADA issues and ask questions seeking comments and information from the public. The four ANPRMs were published in the Federal Register on July 26, 2010.

Web Accessibility
State and local governments, businesses, educators, and other organizations covered by the ADA are increasingly using the web to provide information, goods, and services to the public. In the web accessibility ANPRM, the department presents for public comment a series of questions seeking input regarding how the department can develop a workable framework for website access that provides individuals with disabilities access to the critical information, programs, and services provided on the web, while respecting the unique characteristics of the internet and its transformative impact on everyday life.

Next Generation (NG) 9-1-1
9-1-1 centers are moving towards an Internet-enabled network to allow the general public to make a 9-1-1 “call” via voice, text, or video over the Internet and directly communicate with personnel at the centers. The NG 9-1-1 ANPRM seeks information on how the centers may be able to provide direct access to 9-1-1 for individuals with disabilities as they implement new communication technologies.

Captioning and Video Description in Movies Shown in Movie Theaters
Recent technologies have been developed to provide closed captions and video description in movies being shown at movie theaters. Movie studios have begun to produce and distribute movies with captioning and video description. However, these features are not generally made available at movie theaters. In the captioning and video description ANPRM, the department asks for suggestions regarding the kind of accessibility requirements for captioning and video description it should consider as proposed rules for public comments, particularly in light of the industry’s conversion to digital technology.

Equipment and Furniture
Full use of the nation’s built environment can only be fully achieved by the use of accessible equipment. There is now improved availability of many different types of accessible equipment and furniture, ranging from accessible medical exam tables, chairs, scales, and radiological equipment and furniture to “talking” ATMs and interactive kiosks. In the equipment and furniture ANPRM, the department poses questions and seeks comments from the public, covered entities, equipment manufacturers, advocacy and trade groups about the nature of accessibility issues and proposed solutions for making equipment and furniture accessible to persons with disabilities.

The four ANPRMs are available for review at: http://ada.gov/anprm2010.htm

Infinitec, in part with the United Cerebral Palsy Association of Greater Chicago and the United Cerebral Palsy Associations, Inc., Washington D.C., has created an online guide to adaptive water sports and recreation. Infinitec’s website offers information on assistive technology products and services for swimming, sailing, scuba diving, fishing, rowing, canoeing, kayaking, and waterskiing. This online resource guide also offers tips on water safety and how to find sites that offer accessible recreation.

For the complete online guide on adaptive water sports and recreation, go to: www.infinitec.org/play/water/adaptivewatersports.htm

New Jersey Institute of Disabilities (NJID) announces two upcoming events designed to promote awareness about emergency preparedness for people with disabilities. NJID will be distributing free low-tech communication devices to families, specifically designed for use during emergency situations. NJID will also distribute emergency GO Bags and other useful emergency items.

There is no income qualification for this program. To be eligible for the free communication device, a child (age 8 years and older) and at least one caregiver must attend an informational session. Sessions will be held on:

Wednesday July 28, 2010
The Lakeview School- Roosevelt Park
10 Oak Drive
Edison, NJ
6:30 – 8:30pm

OR

Saturday July 31, 2010
Alianza at the Raritan Bay YMCA
365 New Brunswick Avenue
Perth Amboy, NJ
11:00am – 1:00pm

You must pre-register to attend. Spanish language interpreters will be available at both sessions.

For registration, call:
Marisa Ramos at (732) 442-8393
or email: Marisa.Ramos@cpamc.org

NJID is a non-profit organization that provides a unique continuum of services for more than 1000 children and adults with disabilities. NJID received funding to provide long-term loans of communication devices for people with limited speech capacities from the Assistive Technology Advocacy Center of Disability Rights New Jersey.

For more information, visit NJID’s website: www.cpamc.org/

TECH Connection of Family Resource Associates announces an upcoming AT expo for seniors. This event is free and will be held on August 30, 2010 from 10AM to 1PM at 35 Haddon Avenue in Shrewsbury. The expo will focus on seniors and the use of computer-related assistive technology. TECH Connection staff will demonstrate devices such as screen readers, screen magnification, or track balls and other alternatives to computer navigation.

This expo will also show how a computer can help seniors find new ways to re-engage with the world, such as connecting with grand-children, playing games to help with memory, finding childhood friends, ordering groceries online, medical research, and finding “how to” videos on You Tube.

The event is free but registration is required.

To register or for more information, call or email:
Joanne Castellano, Director
Phone: 732-747-5310, ext 14
Email: tecconn@aol.com

TECHConnection @ FRA
35 Haddon Avenue
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
www.techconnection.org

The National Center for Law and Economic Justice (NCLEJ) has published the report, “The Closed Digital Door: State Public Benefits Agencies’ Failure to Make Websites Accessible to People with Disabilities and Usable for Everyone.” This report discusses the findings from web accessibility research of state and some local public benefits agency web sites in California, Florida, Michigan, New York, and Texas. The report describes the problems that make it difficult or impossible for people with disabilities to apply for benefits online, request an application, search the website, or contact the agency by email. The research, which was conducted for NCLEJ by students at Northeastern University School of Law, also found that basic information on how to apply for benefits was difficult to find on websites. NCLEJ has called upon the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Food and Nutrition Service at USDA to require the states included in the study to fix the problems identified, to issue guidance to states on web accessibility, to convene an interagency workgroup to develop materials to assist states, and to provide technical assistance to state agencies on the issue.

NCLEJ’s entire report may be found at: The Closed Digital Door

Veterans who are disabled, and served on active duty before or after September 11, 2001, may be able to receive a free Segway that is custom designed for their needs.

In order to qualify for a free Segway, a Veteran must have incurred an illness or injury resulting in permanent disability and difficulty walking as a result of one of the following:

- Armed Conflict
- Hazardous Service
- Conditions Simulating War
- Instrumentality of War
- Combat Operation
- Combat Zone

This program is sponsored by the Disability Rights Advocates for Technology, (DRAFT), which is made up of individuals with disabilities that refuse to be defined by their disability and have a passion for participating in life’s activities. They provide advocacy as well as education services as an advocate for the adoption of Universally Designed Technology Solutions. As part of their mission, they provide Segways for disabled Veterans at no charge.

To date, Segs4Vets has awarded more than 250 Segways to Veterans who were severely injured while serving our nation in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

Please visit: www.segs4vets.com for more information and an application.

The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) announces a new survey and a chance to earn up to $300. Participants are needed to complete a survey about their use of Alternative Augmentation Communication (AAC) Technologies.

The Center on Knowledge Translation for Technology Transfer (KT4TT), has partnered with the Western New York Independent Living Center. Together they are conducting research on knowledge translation strategies for people with speech and related disabilities. Their current research is seeking the best ways of communicating research knowledge to AAC stakeholders. This includes consumers, clinicians, brokers, policy makers, manufacturers and researchers. In the past, this Center has been able to get over 50 products for people with disabilities into the market place. The Center is seeking input from consumers over the age of 18 who use AAC equipment, and who will participate in our study.

For any consumer who participates in the study he / she will receive $100
for each one of the 3 questionnaires we will ask them to complete.

For each participant an organization is able to offer us, a chance will be
put into a drawing for $1000. This means if your organization can help the
center find one consumer your organization will get one chance at the
drawing. If your organization assists the center in finding 10 consumers you
will get 10 chances in the drawing. They are only seeking 60 participants
so you can see the chance of winning the drawing is greatly enhanced with
more referrals.

To find out more about the study or to participate, contact Douglas Usiak at Tel (716) 204-8606 ext. 205, or email: djusiak@buffalo.edu

**** Be Sure to mention AAPD as the referring agency ***

On March 5, 2010, the U.S. Department of Education released the National Education Technology Plan. This plan outlines recommendations in five areas of education that will redefine instruction. These models focus on the use of state-of-the art technology to individualize instruction, apply ongoing assessments, employ team-teaching methods, create a more relevant infrastructure, and change the way technology is managed.

In New Jersey, Disability Rights New Jersey (DRNJ) was established as the state’s protection and advocacy system. Its nine programs include Protection and Advocacy for Assistive Technology (PAAT) and the Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC).

New Jersey also offers a program called the Assistive Technology Center through the Assistive Technology Services Department of Advancing Opportunities. “We offer different levels of support,” explains Fred Tchang, the center’s director. He notes their Web site is a good source of information. “You can see all the different equipment of the tech-lending center with pictures and descriptions. There’s a blog there and also a newsletter to help keep up with what’s new.”

In addition to information, the center loans out assistive technology devices are for trial periods. The center also offers AT Demos, which are basically parent-group presentations on particular AT equipment and devices.

The center recently introduced an efficient new program called AT Consult. The new program offers a new option. “It’s basically a form of Web conferencing,” explains Tchang. “We get the basic background information from the school, what they think is relevant. We review the information. Then we set up a Web conference on the Internet, basically have a team meeting with the parents and members of the Child Study Team.” They also provide forms to help measure student performance using the equipment. The center follows up with an e-mail summary and a list of resources.

In a collaborative effort, the New Jersey Department. of Education, Office of Special Education Programs (NJOSEP) and the Statewide Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN) are offering free workshops to parents, family members, child study team members, general and special education teachers and related services personnel. These workshops address issues of assistive technology for students from preschool through twelfth grade. They specifically emphasize the use of technology to support students with disabilities within the general education environment.

For the full article see:
Assistive Technology in the 21st Century

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed the SPARKy prosthetic leg, a device that uses energy stored in a spring while walking.  The lightweight prosthetic provides a much wider range of motion than traditional prosthetics while reducing fatigue.  It allows users to walk on a wide variety of surfaces, traverse stairs in both directions, and even tackle inclines, thus permitting a return to most normal activities for many people wearing the new leg.

Weighing around four pounds, the spring ankle with regenerative kinetics device  is lighter than most prosthetics.  The new below-the-knee prosthetic takes advantage of the mechanics of the natural gait which consists of two components: stance and swing.  In the stance phase, the foot in planted on the ground and pushes off into the swing phase where it moves to the next ground position.

SPARKy stretches a spring in the position of a healthy Achilles tendon. The spring captures the energy generated as the foot breaks the fall of the leg as it reaches the ground at the start of a stance phase, storing it as the ankle rolls over the foot. That stored energy then propels the foot forward for the next step, greatly increasing the power of that step. Small motors in the foot provide tiny adjustments to the spring to regulate the gait and position the spring for maximum efficiency. Researchers claim that the range of motion and power provided by the spring is roughly equivalent to the normal gait of a person with two natural legs.

Funded in part by a three year grant from the United States Army, the eventual goal of the SPARKy project is to restore enough functionality to amputees to allow them to return to active duty.

Read more about SPARKy in the press release from Arizona State University: http://asunews.asu.edu/20091221_SPARKy

The Annual Abilities Expo will be held this Friday, May 21, through Sunday, May 23, 2010 at the New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center. Admission is free and show hours will be Friday 11 am to 5 pm, Saturday 10 am to 5 pm and Sunday 11 am to 4 pm.

The Abilities Expo will feature exhibits, workshops, events and activities to appeal to the full spectrum of people with disabilities, from children to seniors and everyone in between.

Attendees expecting cutting-edge products and services for people with all types of disabilities will find mobility products, medical equipment, home accessories, essential services, low-cost daily living aids, products for people with visual impairments and much more. The new Assistive Technology Pavilion will feature 1,400 square feet of the latest AT products for people with wide ranges of physical, sensory and developmental disabilities. This pavilion is anchored by the New Jersey Assistive Technology Center, who is sponsoring an Interactive Demo Lab. This lab will not only feature an array of breakthrough assistive technologies, it will allow Expo visitors to experience them hands-on.

A series of workshops which address pressing disability issues will be offered free-of-charge to all attendees. Sessions will focus on travel, dating, finances, home modifications, and accessible vehicles. Special sessions will also be available for healthcare professionals.

Visitors will have an opportunity to try out the rock climbing wall, as well as an obstacle course designed for wheelchairs. There will be demonstrations on interactive adaptive sports, dance performances and instruction, canine assistance, face painting and an Artist Market showcasing the works of local artists with disabilities.

For more information, schedules and directions, visit: www.abilitiesexpo.com/newyork

A new initiative has pledged to double the number of books available to individuals with visual impairments or learning disabilities, such as dyslexia. From classic 19th century fiction and current novels to technical guides and research materials, the Internet Archive is scanning books into its database and converting them into a format called Daisy. Files are then downloaded to devices that can translate the text and read the books aloud.

Through automated scanning and conversion, Internet Archive technicians can scan more than a thousand books per day. They come from the collections of over 150 libraries.

“Blind people must have access to repositories of digital information if we are to reach our goal of becoming full and equal participants in society,” said Dr Marc Maurer, president of the National Federation of the Blind.

Older books are available from the Internet Archive’s unencrypted Daisy library, while modern books can be accessed by qualified users through their NLS key — an encrypted code provided by the Library of Congress’ National Library Service for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS).

To access accessible books from the Internet Archive’s unencrypted Daisy library, go to: http://openlibrary.org

To learn more about Daisy and read the entire article, see: Project Makes a Million Books Available

According to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), new rules requiring that businesses’ websites be ADA-accessible are in the works and could be finalized as soon as September 2010.

“It is and has been the position of the Department of Justice since the late 1990s that Title III of the ADA applies to websites,” Thomas E. Perez, assistant attorney general for the DOJ’s civil rights division, said at a recent conference. “We intend to issue regulations under our Title III authority in this regard to help companies comply with their obligations to provide equal access.”

The department has already scheduled a September 2010 update to its regulations that will largely address brick-and-mortar facilities, but refused to disclose whether that particular rulemaking will include website regulation.

For the full article, see: Thompson’s Newsbriefs- New Rules for Websites

On Wednesday May 12th, 2010, the ADA Online Learning Network will offer the free webinar: “Successful Accommodations: Assistive Technology and Accessibility Working Together.” This session will be held online from 2:00-3:00pm.

David Dikter, the Executive Director of the Assistive Technology Industry Association will present this webinar and provide an overview of accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This session will highlight how assistive and accessible technologies work together to create successful working environments for people with disabilities.

For more information or to register for the free webinar: ADA Online Network
or contact ADA Online at: 1-877-232 – 1990 (V/TTY).

Chris Harrison, a graduate student at Carnegie Mellon University and a former intern at Microsoft Research, has developed a working prototype of a system called Skinput that essentially turns a person’s hand and forearm into a keyboard and screen.

Using Skinput, a person could tap their thumb and middle finger together to answer a call; touch their forearm to go to the next track on a music player; or flick the center of their palm to select a menu item. When fitted with a pico-projector, the Skinput system could display an image of a digital keyboard on a person’s forearm. So, using Skinput, someone could send text messages by tapping his or her arm in certain places — without pulling the phone out of a pocket or purse.

Skinput users wear an armband that’s lined with 10 sensors. These sensors look like tiny diving boards with dumbbells on one end, and they pick up inaudible sounds that range in frequency from 25 to 78 hertz. When a Skinput user taps a thumb and middle finger together, the impact sends ripples down the skin and through the bones in the person’s arm.

“They sort of start resonating — like guitar strings,” Harrison said. The diving-board receivers read the sound waves to figure out what gesture the person made, and then relay that information to a phone. Skinput can tell whether a person tapped a middle finger or an index finger, because the two moves sound slightly different to the springy receivers.

The system, which has been under development for eight months, won’t be commercially available for two to seven years, said Dan Morris, a Microsoft researcher who is working with Harrison on Skinput. According to Morris, Skinput’s sensors need to get more accurate before Skinput can be put on the market.

In a 13-person trial in Seattle, Washington, Skinput was found to be 96 percent accurate. But that test only used five buttons. The system would have to improve for people to make use of a full keyboard.

For the entire article and a short video, go to: Microsoft’s Skinput Turns Arms into Buttons

Yanko Designs’ Konstantin Datz has developed a Rubik’s Cube for individuals who are Blind. This Rubik’s cube features embossed Braille lettering that includes the colors green, blue, red, yellow, white, and pink. This 3D puzzle must then be solved by manipulating each face of the cube to match up with the designated colors.

For more information and to see the Rubik’s cube, go to:
www.yankodesign.com/2010/03/17/color-rubik-cube-for-the-blind/

TECHConnection of Family Resource Associates, Inc. (FRA) has announced a new grant-funded opportunity to expand the scope of their Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) Services.

TECHConnection’s AAC Program specializes in the provision of services to children with severe physical impairments with high cognitive-language abilities and to individuals with severe motor speech impairments, as a result of accident, disability or aging and conditions such as ALS, MS, stroke, traumatic brain injury, autism, etc. Specifically those requiring an SGD will qualify for this grant

TECHConnection’s current AAC Services include:
A Comprehensive AAC Evaluation of:
• a client’s physical abilities, symbolic performance, and cognitive-language abilities to ensure appropriate device selection
• consideration of several device options from various AAC manufacturers following guidelines set forth by Medicare & medical insurance companies

A Detailed Report including:
• an AAC device recommendation or when medically appropriate, a device prescription
• a treatment plan outlining requisite goals and objectives

In addition, training & follow-up services are available.

When a Voice-output AAC Device is recommended, TECHConnection can now provide the following services, free of charge:
• assistance in submitting required documentation to insurance and other 3rd party funding sources
• referral to legal assistance with insurance appeals, when indicated
• additional follow up services for training and device programming, etc

Candidates for TECHConnection’s services include individuals with a wide range of AAC needs and abilities.

Staff
Joan Bruno, Ph.D., CCC-SLP serves as the key evaluator for patients served by this grant. Dr. Bruno has over 30 years experience in the field of AAC, with expertise in helping young children gain age-appropriate expressive language abilities and helping all individuals to become more efficient and effective communicators. All evaluators are ASHA Certified and NJ Licensed speech-language pathologists experienced in Best Practices for the utilization of AAC technology.

For further information:
Additional details, an intake packet, and all relevant financial forms can be downloaded from: www.techconnection.org
(Go to TECHConnection -> Augmentative Communication -> and then “Grant for Expanded AAC Services for SGD’s”)

New Jersey Department of Education Clinic & Agency provides speech and assistive technology services for students in public and approved private schools. TECHConnection and its staff are listed under Family Resources Associates, Inc. (FRA). TECHConnection is also approved as a
Self Directed Day Services Provider from DDD.

The U.S. Access Board leads the development, advancement, and implementation of accessibility requirements with rulemaking responsibility under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA), Section 508, and the Telecommunications Act. The Access Board is undertaking an update of its standards for electronic and information technology in the Federal sector covered by Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act. As part of this effort, it is also updating guidelines for telecommunications products subject to Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act.

On March 17, 2010, the Access Board released for public comment a draft of the updated standards and guidelines. The draft features a new structure and format that integrates the 508 standards and 255 guidelines into a single document referred to as the “Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Standards and Guidelines.” Requirements have been reorganized according to functionality instead of product type since many devices now feature an array of capabilities and applications. The released draft includes proposed revisions to various performance criteria and technical specifications that are designed to improve accessibility, add clarity to facilitate compliance, address market trends, and promote harmonization with other guidelines and standards.

Access is addressed for various disabilities and the technologies covered by this rulemaking include: telephones and cell phones, computer hardware and software, websites, media players, electronic documents, and PDAs, among others. As part of this rulemaking, the Board proposes to supplement its ADA Accessibility Guidelines, which cover access to facilities, to broaden coverage to include certain types of interactive transaction machines such as point-of-sales machines and self-service kiosks.

Through this release, the Board seeks public comment on both the substance and structure of the document. In addition, the Board seeks information for its use in preparing an impact and cost assessment on the changes. Instructions for submitting comments, which are due by June 21, 2010, are included in the notice. The Board will use the input received on this draft to prepare a proposed rule that will provide another opportunity for comment

For more information on the draft rule and published notice:
www.access-board.gov/508.htm

These documents are also posted on www.regulations.gov which allows visitors to view and submit public comments.

Or contact Tim Creagan at: creagan@access-board.gov

YouTube has agreed to automatically caption videos on its site, opening up a huge share of its content to people who are hearing-impaired, and a first step in creating a network of videos that could be subtitled between many languages. With the new service, which launched March 4, 2010, any video that meets sound and technical quality standards automatically will be captioned by Google’s speech recognition technology. While YouTube has offered closed-captioned video in the past, the captions generally had to be provided by the video producer, and were a very small share of YouTube’s database.

For now, YouTube can only transcribe videos uploaded in English into text, which can then be translated into text captions in other languages. But given the 20 hours of video content that YouTube uploads each minute, the San Bruno unit of Google said this is the largest effort ever tried on the Internet to harness evolving speech recognition technology to caption video content.

Google’s initiative, piloted in November, began with a handful of partner channels including PBS, Stanford University and National Geographic. It has now expanded to all uploaded English-speaking videos, with more languages to be added later this year.

For the entire article, go to: Google’s Smart Captioning Move

The Madison Parents and Professionals for Exceptional Children, a support group for parents of children with disabilities, and an affiliate of the United Leadership Council for Exceptional Children, will offer four educational meetings at the Madison Junior School Media Center (160 Main Street in Madison). The meetings begin at 7:00 p.m. and are open to the public.

On February 24, 2010, Brian Friedlander, an assistive technology consultant, will speak about “What’s New in Assistive Technologies for Students with Learning Disabilities.”

The Madison Parents and Professionals for Exceptional Children provides support and advocacy for families, promotes effective communication between home and school and offers programs and information to parents.

For information about The Madison Parents and Professionals for Exceptional Children and the Madison Special Services Department visit: www.madisonpublicschools.org.

Army Captain Matthew Staton is one of many recipients of technology-based assistance that has enabled him to embark on a successful post-military life. Through the Computer/Electronic Accommodations Program, also known as CAP, free assistive technology and services to people with disabilities throughout the Defense Department and other federal agencies. The program provided Staton with two personal digital assistants, a digital voice recorder, literacy software and scanner, and even a chair – all free of charge.

Since its inception in 1990, the program has filled more than 81,000 customer accommodations. In 2004, the program expanded to target the unique needs of wounded warriors. CAP has local representatives at more than 56 activities throughout the country.

Through the program, employees receive assistive technology and training, needs assessments and technology demonstrations, installation and integration of technology, and training on disability management and on creating an accessible environment.

For the full article: www.jacksonnjonline.com/2010/02/01/technology-helps-wounded-warrior-lead-productive-life/

For more information on CAP: www.tricare.mil/CAP/

Upon encountering websites with accessibility problems, it is important to provide feedback to the organization. The Web Accessibility Initiative (www.w3.org) provides helpful tips on what to do with inaccessible websites. This guide also offers sample emails to direct consumers on how to address inaccessibilty issues and to provide feedback with various operating systems.

The Web Accessibility Initiative further provides a list of the following resources for information on web accessibility:

Accessibility – W3C
www.w3.org/standards/webdesign/accessibility.html

Introduction to Web Accessibility
www.w3.org/WAI/intro/accessibility.php

Developing a Web Accessibility Business Case for Your Organization
www.w3.org/WAI/bcase/Overview.html

How People with Disabilities Use the Web
www.w3.org/WAI/intro/people-use-web.html

Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Overview
www.w3.org/WAI/intro/wcag.php

Family Resource Association, Inc.
and TECHConnection will be having a clothing drive pick up in the Shrewsbury, NJ area on Thursday, January 28, 2010. (Snow date is February 4th.)

Supporters in the general Monmouth County area who wish to donate clothing, accessories, and linens can call the clothing drive at 732-446-4041 or send an email to fraclothingdrive@gmail.com.

Family Resource Associates & TECHConnection
35 Haddon Avenue
Shrewsbury, NJ 07702
732-747-5310
www.frainc.org
www.techconnection.org

RJ Cooper and Associates, Inc. specializes in customized software and hardware products, such as adaptive keyboards, digital cameras, and game controllers for persons with physical disabilities. RJ Cooper has recently developed a switch that can be used to enable persons with significant physical disabilities to play Guitar Hero. This specialized single switch device is mounted on the cheek and allows the player to access the guitar controller.

RJ Cooper has adapted this switch so that it may also be directly plugged into the Guitar Hero drum set to play the bass drum.

RJ Cooper is selling the switch-adapted guitars for Xbox, Wii, and Playstation 2 for $99.00.

For personal testimonies and more information, visit the website at: www.rjcooper.com/guitar-hero/index.html

Contact Information:
RJ Cooper & Associates
27601 Forbes Rd. Suite 39
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Telelphone: 1-800-RJCooper (800-752-6673)
Fax: 949-582-3169
Email: info@rjcooper.com
Technical Support: techsupport@rjcooper.com

Empower Technologies has launched a new website offering comparison shopping with products from thousands of retailers and manufacturers offering accessible equipment and technology. Empower’s accessible comparison shopping site is the largest of its kind and provides over 25 million general merchandise products categorized and presented through a user interface developed to appropriately interact with Assistive Technology (AT) devices such as screen readers, magnifiers and alternative input devices used by individuals with limited functionality or disabilities in the home, educational or workplace environment.

In 2010, Empower Technologies plans to launch a comprehensive content portal which will deliver information, products and services intended to support the requirements of individuals of all ages with special needs, as well as the communities that assist them.

About Empower Technologies:
Empower Technologies LLC is based in Sarasota, Florida. The company’s mission is to provide a consolidated source for critical information and resources addressing the needs of individuals with special needs and the aging population, as well as families, caregivers and the community that supports them.

For further information please visit EmpowerEveryone.com or contact CEO Michael Dorety at: info@empowereveryone.com.

Readability is a new tool available for free download to any web browser’s toolbar. Readability allows the reader to view only the text and photos from the website by eliminating online ads, links, banners, or anything else that may be considered a distraction.

Once installed, Readability allows the user to select a preferred font style and size. The background automatically reverts to plain white to transform any webpage into looking like a printed book or a Kindle page. Readability can be installed on any Web browser by following the prompts to click and drag the Readability button to the Favorites toolbar. Once installed, Readability can be activated at any time from the main toolbar.

To learn more about Readability and for the free download, go to: Readability: an arc90 laboratory experiment

The three regional Learning Resource Centers (LRC) announce several upcoming workshops for parents.

Understanding NIMAS and NIMAC:
Accessing Accessible Print Media for NIMAS Eligible Students
will be held on:

Date: Jan 12, 2010
Time: 5:30-7pm
Location: Learning Resource Center – North Satellite
322 American Rd.
Morris Plains, NJ

Date: Feb 10 2010
Time: 5:30-7pm
Location: Learning Resource Center – Trenton
200 Riverview Plaza
Trenton, NJ

Date: Feb. 4, 2010
Time: 4:30-6pm
Location: Learning Resource Center- South
606 Delsea Drive
Sewell, NJ

Workshop Description:
For a student whose visual or physical disability impacts on their
ability to access print, the use of alternative print media such as
Braille, large print, audio and/or electronic text is an important IEP
consideration. IDEA 2004 created provisions to increase access to
textbooks and related materials in accessible print media for eligible
students through NIMAS [National Instructional Materials Accessibility
Standard] and NIMAC [National instructional Materials Access Center].

This training will provide the following information: texts eligible
for conversion to NIMAS format, student eligibility to receive NIMAS
materials, assistive technology considerations for accessible print
media and procedures to access the NIMAC repository.

Registration is $5 for a single workshop. For registration and more information, visit LRC’s website at: www.state.nj.us/education/lrc

As a part of the Fire Safety Solutions for Oklahomans with Disabilities project, Oklahoma’s ABLE Tech has collaborated with the Fire Protection Publications at Oklahoma State University to offer a free fire safety video for people with disabilities.

This 24 minute video is presented in American Sign Language and with captions. The video can be downloaded from ABLE Tech’s website at: www.ok.gov/abletech

In addition to the video, Oklahoma ABLE Tech has fire safety guides available for free download. Oklahoma ABLE Tech offers fire safety information for people with visual disabilities, mobility disabilities, and for those who are deaf and hard of hearing.

For more information, contact Oklahoma ABLE Tech at:
1-888-885-5588 (V/TDD) or
405-744-9748
Website: http://okabletech.okstate.edu

Researchers at Northeastern University have developed several portable robotic devices to aid in the rehabilitation process for individuals who have suffered a stroke. Unlike other rehabilitation devices, these may also let patients continue therapy at home.

The Northeastern researchers have developed devices for the knee, wrist, pelvis, and ankle that they say are portable and cheap enough to be rented by small rehabilitation or medical centers, and potentially even individual patients. The team kept the devices small by using a substance called electro-rheological fluid, which becomes stickier when an electric current is applied, thus creating a stronger resistive force in the device. The fluid contains particles that form chains when electricity is applied, turning the liquid into more of a gel in a few milliseconds.

Northeastern’s latest version of an active knee rehabilitation orthotic device, dubbed AKROD, uses a NASA-inspired gear-based system to create a brake on the device. The gear-bearing drive lets the system lift a patient’s leg to correct walking, rather than just apply resistive force. The device is still relatively small and light, due to a compact gearbox design. The device acts as if it has a virtual spring, say the researchers, using careful force to push the patient into the correct position.

The Northeastern team has also tested a rehabilitation device for the hand that’s made of a gripper handle connected to sensors and gears. The device is driven by two actuators with the electro-rheological fluid, which increases or decreases its resistance as the patient uses the handle to navigate through a video game maze. The device exercises not only hand muscles but also forearm muscles, and records the force and position of the patient’s hand. The researchers also created a version that can be used in an MRI to image the brain while a patient is undergoing the hand exercises.

The devices still need to go through clinical trials before they can be made available to the public.

The SenseCam is a portable camera designed to be worn at chest level to automatically capture images. This camera takes low-resolution photographs with a fisheye lens, at a rate of two photos per minute. Researchers believe this could change treatment modalities for patients with memory loss, in particular those with Alzheimer’s.

“The SenseCam is all about recalling a piece of information someone already has, rather than creating a memory,” said Dr. Emma Berry, a clinical neuropsychologist , who has been working with memory loss patients using the camera.

In the initial trial, a woman with severe amnesia was given the SenseCam to wear for a period of time. The woman repeatedly reviewed episodic images of her daily life taken on the camera with her husband.

Currently, the SenseCam is being tested with a handful of people who have Alzheimer’s disease, with similar results in findings that have yet to be published. Neil Hunt, Chief Executive of the Alzheimer’s Society, said the device could be potentially exciting for Alzheimer’s patients.

The SenseCam was invented in 1999 by Lyndsay Williams, a researcher at Microsoft’s research laboratory. While the battery requires a daily charge, the 1Gb of memory can store up to 30,000 photographs. The SenseCam also has several sensors other than the image sensor embedded, including infra-red, heat, heart rate and pressure to record health monitoring data.

Vicon, developer of motion capture products used in Hollywood, will be mass-producing the device as the Vicon Revue and is expected to cost around $800.

For the full article, see: Life-Logging Camera Brings New Hope

Rob Mayben, a special education teacher in Sonora, CA, has recently developed an assistive device for his students. Called the “Desktop Desk,” this device is portable, lightweight, and easy to set up.

The Desktop Desk has helped provide opportunities and access for individuals who have orthopedic impairments, fine motor deficits, visual impairments, hyperactivity and focus limits, and more. The Desktop Desk provides a lightweight and portable, easy to clean surface that attaches to most tables. It creates a large, stable, and functional writing surface that adjusts in elevations and angles while providing opportunities for categorization, organization, and independence. The Desktop Desk is an adjustable activity center that can provide disabled individuals the ability to access and actively participate more equally in some of life’s everyday activities.

For additional information, photos, and a short video showing the Desktop Desk being used by Mr. Mayben’s student, visit: www.desktopdesk.com.

Under a program called, “Hearing Aid Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (HAAAD),” the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) offers hearing aid assistance to individuals with disabilities and the elderly. Individuals who qualify may be eligible for a $100 reimbursement upon purchasing a hearing aid.

If you are currently enrolled in the Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled Program (PAAD), you must complete a HAAAD application and submit the following documentation:

1. A receipt for the purchase of your hearing aid
2. A written statement from your physician attesting to the medical necessity for obtaining a hearing aid

If you are not currently enrolled in the PAAD program, you must complete a PAAD application as well. This is needed to verify your age or disability status, state residency, and annual income. You may be eligible if you have only limited or partial coverage for insurance. Those individuals receiving Medicaid or full coverage through other insurance or retirement benefits are NOT eligible for HAAAD.

Applications may be obtained by calling the toll-free number:
1-800-792-9745 or visit the website at: www.state.nj.us/health/seniorbenefits/haaaddetail.shtml

The Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) has announced the winner of its annual YouTube Video Contest. The goal of the contest is to raise awareness about the power of assistive technology and how life-changing and enhancing it can be for individuals and their families. The grand prize is an all-expenses paid trip to the ATIA 2009 Chicago Conference (October 28-31, 2009) held at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center.

The winning video, “My Assistive Technology (AT) Success Story,” features Pete, a homebound man with disabilities who uses a variety of assistive technology products. In his video, Pete explains how he uses an Environmental Control Unit to regulate nearly every aspect of his living environment. He further demonstrates how he uses voice recognition software to meet his visual disability needs. And Pete shows how his ability to use a computer was revolutionized by combining Dragon with another voice recognition product and a head mouse emulator.

Pete says, “In many ways assistive technology has given me a new lease on life. It has freed me from my physical limitations and given me a sense of independence that I never dreamed possible. It has improved my life immeasurably and I know that it could do so for many others.”

To view all of the winning videos go to: www.atia.org/youtubecontestresults

To read the full article on this, click here: ATIA Video Contest Winner

For more information about ATIA’s educational opportunities and conferences, visit their website at: www.atia.org

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University presents– Crisis Camp Philly: A Global Discussion on Disaster Relief, Technology, Collaboration, and Inclusion. This event will be offered both live and via the web on October 24th and October 25th from 9:00 A.M.- 4:00 P.M. at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA.

Registration for this event is FREE. For more information or to register, visit the Institute’s project site at: http://www.spargis.org

The event will be both LIVE (at Temple University) and interactive web via the Adobe Connect platform. Participants will have the option to participate in the discussions (live and via the web), attend in person, ask questions of the various presenters, or listen as an audience member.

Crisis Camp Philly is an event aimed at addressing the disaster mitigation needs of all people with a focus on disabilities through global technology, innovation, collaboration, and inclusion.
Empasis will be on the discussion of these issues and possible solutions to those issues by collaboration, innovation and sharing best practices both in technology and other disciplines.

Tentative topics include:
- Wireless & SMS Text Practices with Disaster Reporting

- Accessibility, Relevance to AAC (Augmentative and alternative communication)

- Mobility Issues: Disaster Response and Recovery

- Strategic Community Outreach Practices

- Disability Studies meets Disaster Research and Management: Sharing the same “Sandbox”

- Assistive Technology: High and Low Tech mitigation practices in a diverse international community

- The Power of Open Source Technology and Communities

Crisis Camp is also seeking volunteers to help with writing, logistics, corporate and other sponsors, caption transcribers, ASL interpreters, advisors, session recorders, film and audio, logistics, and web access. If you are interested, please contact George Heake at gheake@temple.edu or call 215-589-9261.

The workshop, Sitting Solutions: Principles of Wheelchair Positioning and Mobilility Devices, will be held on October 30, 2009 from 8:30am- 4:30pm at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Englewood. The Crowne Plaza is located at 4001 South Van Brunt Street in Englewood, NJ.

Presenter Jean Minkel, PT, ATP will guide participants through seating assessments and evaluations, as well as provide recommendations and funding of postural systems, pressure management devices, and specialized wheelchairs.

Cost for the session is $119.00 and participants may earn up to 6 hours of CEU credits.

For registration or more information:
Hudson Home Health Care
151 Rockwell Road
Newington, CT 06111
1-800-321-4442 ext. 105

Registration may also be completed online at: http://hudsonhhc.com/newsevents.html

The Special Needs Conference Series is hosting a one day event on October 22, 2009. “Take Control: Building Skills for a Successful Tomorrow” will be held from 8:30 am to 3:15 pm at the Holiday Inn Cherry Hill 2175 West Marlton Pike, (Route 70) Cherry Hill, NJ 08002.

The keynote speaker is Joseph Valenzano Jr., CEO of Exceptional Parent Magazine. Workshops will cover topics including: social skills and communication for special needs children, guardianship and estate planning, and educational entitlement. Workshops will be presented by experts from Interactive Kids, Mary’s Place Pediatric Rehab, DDD/DVR, Hinkle, Fingles & Prior, and Faulkner Financial.
Full workshop descriptions can be found at: www.whoscoming.com/takecontrol

RSVP for this event online at: www.whoscoming.com/takecontrol/BuildingSkills.html

The conference is sponsored by Mary’s Place Pediatric Rehab, Interactive Kids, and Faulkner Financial.

A new three-year research study called the “Artificial Retina Project,” is being conducted in the United States, Mexico and Europe. This project is studying the effects of surgically implanted electrodes to help individuals with blindness and other visual impairments to detect important visual cues. In addition to the electrodes, participants also have a camera on the bridge of their noses and a video processor strapped to their waists. Participants choose when to use the device by turning their camera on.

With the artificial retina, a sheet of electrodes is implanted in the eye. The person wears glasses with a tiny camera, which captures images that the belt-pack video processor translates into patterns of light and dark, like the “pixelized image we see on a stadium scoreboard,” said Jessy D. Dorn, a research scientist at Second Sight Medical Products, which produces the device, collaborating with the Department of Energy. The video processor directs each electrode to transmit signals representing an object’s contours, brightness and contrast, which pulse along optic neurons into the brain. Other research teams are developing similar devices.

Brian Mech, Second Sight’s vice president for business development, said the company was seeking federal approval to market the 60-electrode version, which would cost up to $100,000 and might be covered by insurance. Also planned are 200- and 1,000-electrode versions; the higher number might provide enough resolution for reading.

Among the 38 participants so far, some have been able to differentiate plates from cups, tell grass from sidewalk, sort white socks from dark, distinguish doors and windows, identify large letters of the alphabet, and see where people are. Linda Morfoot, 65, of Long Beach, Calif., blind for 12 years, says she can now toss a ball into a basketball hoop, follow her nine grandchildren as they run around her living room and “see where the preacher is” in church.

Kathy Blake, 58, of Fountain Valley, Calif., said she mainly wanted to help advance research. But she uses it to sort laundry, notice cars and people, and on the Fourth of July, to “see all the fireworks,” she said.

More than 3.3 million Americans 40 and over, or about one in 28, are blind or have vision so poor that even with glasses, medicine or surgery, everyday tasks are difficult, according to the National Eye Institute, a federal agency. That number is expected to double in the next 30 years. Worldwide, about 160 million people are similarly affected.

For more information on the Artificial Retina Project and the full article, click here: Burst of Technology Helps Blind to See

On Saturday October 3, 2009 the Family Resource Associates is hosting a day of activities which include:
PossAbilities Walk
TECH Expo
and FRA’s 30th Anniversary Celebration barbeque picnic lunch.

All events will be held at:
The Atlantic Club
1904 Atlantic Avenue, Manasquan
10:00 am- 4:00 pm

Pre-registration is required for the picnic lunch.

For more information and to register online, visit FRA’s website at: www.frainc.org

Benetech’s Bookshare Project, an online accessible library, has announced a new partnership with Shinano Kenshi Corporation, Ltd. This partnership will allow Bookshare members to easily download and read tens of thousands of accessible books, periodicals, educational books, textbooks, general fiction, non-fiction and literature on the new PLEXTALK™ Pocket portable player and recorder. The PLEXTALK Pocket is a DAISY (Digital Accessible Information System) player that can easily convert Bookshare’s digital text files to speech so books and newspapers can be read aloud. The PLEXTALK Pocket offers the latest digital book navigation to Bookshare members.

The Bookshare Project is available as a free service to all students currently enrolled in a primary, secondary or post-secondary school. Those not enrolled in school must pay a $50 annual membership fee to access Bookshare’s online library of digital text, digital Braille and other accessible print materials.

For the press release on Bookshare’s partnership with PLEXTALK, click here: http://www.bookshare.org/assets/press/Plextalk_Release

For more information on Bookshare, check out their website at: www.bookshare.org

Boston College announces their release of the Camera Mouse software. Camera Mouse is a software program that is used in conjunction with a standard USB web cam. The software allows the user to control the mouse pointer on the computer screen through his/her head movements. Camera Mouse can be used on any computer system that uses Windows Vista or Windows XP. This software is now available for free download.

To try out the free Camera Mouse software download or for additional information, click here: www.cameramouse.org

HumanWare and the Washington State Office of Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) have partnered to develop the DeafBlind Communicator (DBC). The DBC provides three types of communication for deafblind users: face-to-face, TTY, and SMS Texting. The main unit of the DBC is the DB BrailleNote which is a BrailleNote mPower with special software installed in it. The companion unit is the DB-Phone which is a special cell phone with a visual display and a keyboard that also has the DBC software installed in it. These two components communicate wirelessly using Bluetooth capabilities.

The DBC can also be connected to a phone line and used as a Braille TTY. This exciting new technology allows its users to communicate independently with bus drivers, waiters, shop clerks, friends and family, simply by activating a face-to-face chat using the DBC!

On Thursday, August 20, 2009, the Deaf Blind Communicator will be demonstrated at Temple University. Demonstration will be conducted by Carroll Stone and Greg Stilson from Humanware from 10:30 am – 12:30 pm at Temple University, Room 405, University Services Building, 1601 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19122

The demonstration is free, but attendees must register with Yvette Bolden at bolden@temple.edu, or call 800-204-7428 (voice); 866-268-0579 (TTY) BY AUGUST 10, 2009.

Read more about this device at: http://www.humanware.com/en-usa/products/blindness/deafblind_communicator/_details/id_118/deafblind_communicator.html

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have adapted the touch screen to include hidden latex air bubbles for temporary pop-up buttons. An air pump allows bubbles to appear as physical keys on a touch screen interface, such as an iPhone or GPS system. Currently, Volkswagen is interested in the pop-up button technology, according to the researchers. However, the goal is that this innovation could eventually make its way into Braille-enabled gadgets and perhaps even the iPhone.

For the full article, go to: “Next for Touchscreens: Temporary Pop-up Buttons?”

Disability Rights New Jersey will present four workshops for people with disabilities from New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania as part of the annual Abilities Expo on April 17-19, 2009, at the New Jersey Convention & Exposition Center in Edison, New Jersey.

On Saturday, April 18, at 10:30 a.m., Jamie Arasz Prioli, a certified assistive technology practioner, will present on, “Simple Home Modifications to Promote Independent Living.” At 3:30 p.m., Curtis Edmonds and Jennifer Halper, both attorneys will discuss, “Navigating the Medicare and Medicaid System.” On Sunday, April 19, at 10:30 a.m., Jamie Arasz Prioli will offer a second presentation of “Simple Home Modifications to Promote Independent Living,” and at 2:30 p.m., DRNJ staff will host a panel discussion on, “Emergency Preparedness For People With Disabilities.”

The Abilities Expo is a consumer show for independent and assisted living products and services that is open to the public. In addition to educational workshops and seminars, the Expo features an extensive exhibit for vendors of a variety of products and services designed to enhance the independence of people with disabilities. DRNJ’s Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC) will have a booth in the exhibit hall distributing information about assistive technology and how people with disabilities can access assistive technology devices and services in order to participate more fully in their communities, including their work, home, school environments.

“The Abilities Expo is an important way to help get the word out about how assistive technology can help people with disabilities,” said Curtis Edmonds, ATAC program manager. “We’re pleased that DRNJ can be a part of this event and excited about being able to present information on so many different issues.”

For more information about the Abilities Expo, visit the Expo website at: http://www.abilitiesexpo.com/newyork. On-site admission to Abilities Expo is free, but those planning to attend are encouraged to register prior to the event by visiting the Abilities Expo website or by calling DRNJ at (800) 922-7233.

About Disability Rights New Jersey: DRNJ is the designated protection and advocacy system for people with disabilities in New Jersey. DRNJ is a non-profit corporation whose governing board consists of a majority of persons with disabilities or family members of persons with disabilities. DRNJ provides legal and non-legal advocacy, information and referral, outreach, training and technical assistance to advance the human, civil, and legal rights of persons with disabilities.