TEC Lab

“FOR PEOPLE WITHOUT DISABILITIES, TECHNOLOGY MAKES THINGS EASIER. FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES, TECHNOLOGY MAKES THINGS POSSIBLE — IBM TRAINING MANUAL (1991)

The Technology Enhancing Capabilities (TEC) Lab was established in 2018 to assist people with intellectual disabilities, mobility impairments, mental illness, and the aging to identify and implement assistive technology solutions. To put the scope of this need in perspective, an astounding 1 in 5 Americans are affected by at least one of these conditions.

So, what exactly is assistive technology? Assistive technology is any product, piece of equipment, or program - whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized - that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a person with a disability. The scope of assistive technology is broad and solutions range from the high tech (tablets, environmental controls, and robotic as examples) to the low tech (adaptive eating utensils, bath lifts, and reachers as examples).

At the TEC Lab, we know that technology can profoundly and positively affect the lives of millions of Americans by increasing independence, restoring dignity, and promoting confidence. However, the apparently endless array of technologies on the market can be intimidating to many people. The good news is that the knowledgeable and experienced staff at the TEC Lab can discuss technology solutions and answer questions in simple, easy to understand language. And, each consultation is tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of the person or people involved.