Assistive Technology

Any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability"    -  IDEA 2004

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While that is the definition based on the law it only provides a very general understanding of Assistive Technology (AT).   AT includes items such as alternative computer interfaces, automated door openers, text-to speech devices/applications, and many others.  Additionally, the way in which AT will be understood in the future may change.  Currently AT does not include devices that are implanted or attached to an individual.  However, due to changes in robotics, medical science, nanotechnology, and other areas the definition around AT will continue to change and expand.   The use of AT also goes beyond children to individuals of all ages.  There is no limit to the number of devices an individual, but end up using and the number is likely to increase with the growth of technology available.