Assistive Technology Services and Equipment: How CART Can Help

CART’s Corner: Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center

By Andy Lin, Technology Specialist, Center for Applied Rehabilitation Technology (CART)

You may have heard about CART through The ALS Association, its newsletter, or a person with ALS (PALS). CART is the Center for Applied Rehabilitation Technology. We are located at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center in Downey.

CART’s team, consisting of occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech language pathology and an assistive technology specialist, is available to address one or more of the technology areas described below. The team offers a full range of services, including evaluation, equipment recommendations, and equipment set-up and instruction.

The team makes every effort to keep current on new assistive technologies in order to help PALS continue to live life fully and as independently as possible. This article will describe CART’s services and procedures for referral. Additional information can be obtained from our website, www.rancho.org/cart, or by calling our office at (562) 401-6800.

Assistive Technology Areas

Seating, Positioning and Mobility
Proper positioning helps insure optimal function and is often primary to determining access to other assistive technologies. Comfortable seating includes pressure relieving seat cushions and power seating functions to allow a change of position, such as reclining or tilting back. A variety of cushions, posture positioning systems, manual and power wheelchairs, and other mobility devices are available to determine the most appropriate positioning and means of mobility.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Alphabet boards, communication software and portable devices with speech synthesis may be used in conjunction with speech or as an alternative. Typically, PALS can use a combination of methods depending on how understandable their speech is, who they are communicating with, and the topic of conversation.

Computer Access and Use
Software and hardware adaptations can assist individuals in accessing and using a computer. Adaptations include modified keyboards, switch access, keyboard/mouse emulators, and speech input. Ergonomic issues are also addressed.

Worksite Evaluations
Problems related to performing current or potential job duties are evaluated. Environmental factors such as accessibility and workspace configuration are also considered

Electronic Aids to Daily Living (EADL)
Individuals who have difficulty operating their lights, TV, and/or phone often find an EADL helpful as an alternative means of control. EADL products range from simple call bells to sophisticated systems that control numerous devices within the home or office.

Referral Procedures
Anyone can refer a PALS to CART for services. We ask the referring agency, PALS, or family member to complete an Intake Form, which includes demographic and insurance information, and the types of services being requested. The Intake Form can be downloaded from our website or completed on the telephone by our Office Manager.

CART accepts most types of medical insurance. A prescription from a physician is required. For PALS with HMO plans, prior authorization is needed. If you do not have insurance, the Muscular Dystrophy Association is a resource that may be available to you.

Molly Doyle, speech pathologist and Andy Lin, assistive technology specialist, work at the Center for Applied Rehabilitation Technology (CART). If you have questions regarding this article please contact CART at www.rancho.org/cart or 562-401-6800.