MN STAR Program

04/23/2026

In honor of National Assistive Technology Awareness Day, our partners at the Minnesota Board on Aging remind us:

As Minnesota’s older population continues to grow rapidly, the need for greater awareness and access to assistive devices becomes increasingly urgent. Assistive technology plays a vital role in helping older adults and their caregivers maintain their independence, enabling them to live safely in their own homes and remain active within their communities.

Through its statewide, free information and assistance service, Minnesota Aging Pathways—offered by the Minnesota Board on Aging—provides older Minnesotans and their caregivers with fast, reliable access to comprehensive resources on assistive technology.

Minnesota Aging Pathways
800-333-2433

04/22/2026

This AT Awareness Day we want to celebrate the difference that Assistive Technology makes in people's lives everyday.

AT gives people the tools they need to move through their world, wherever that takes them!

04/22/2026

Assistive technology is about far more than basic needs; it is the foundation for participation, independence, safety, and dignity. It is the difference between simply surviving and truly thriving.

As we work toward a more inclusive future, consider these three questions:

PERSONAL TECH
- Have you explored the built-in accessibility features on your daily devices?

THE WORKPLACE
- Does your organization actively prioritize inclusive technology for all employees?

COMMUNITY
- Are your public events and digital spaces fully accessible to every participant?

Remember: Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone!

04/21/2026

How is Assistive Technology Funded:
Did you know that Assistive Technology can be funded through:

- Medicaid State Plans
- Medicaid Waivers
- Money Follows the Person
- Medicare
- Private insurance
- Vocational Rehabilitation
- School systems
- State AT Act Programs
- And more!

Assistive Technology. Access Matters. Awareness Matters. Policy Matters.
Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.

04/20/2026

Today, we’re proud to recognize Senator Ed Markey for his leadership and unwavering commitment to advancing assistive technology (AT) access nationwide.

Assistive technology is not a luxury. From communication devices for children with disabilities to smart home devices that promote independence, AT empowers people of all ages to learn, work, and be a part of their communities.

Senator Markey continues to champion policies that strengthen access, expand innovation, and protect funding for programs that make independence possible.

On National Assistive Technology Awareness Day, we thank Senator Markey for standing with the disability community and for helping ensure that technology is for everyone, everywhere.

1 like. "Senator Markey-2026 National Assistive Technology Awareness Day Statement"

04/20/2026

Assistive Technology supports people throughout the lifespan.

Assistive Technology is not just about disability – it’s about independence at every stage of life this includes people who have temporary, intermittent, and progressive disabilities. It also includes those aging into disability and those who do not yet identify as having a disability!

Assistive Technology devices include early intervention communication tools; learning supports in school; workplace accommodations; and aging in place technologies.

Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.

04/19/2026

AT can make such a difference in people's lives, as we've been showcasing across this month. An important part of getting technology into the hands of people that need it is making sure policy, programming, and funding is in place. Policy decisions shape lives and it is vital we approach those decisions as if our own quality of life were on the line, because in all likelihood, one day it will be!

What do you wish policymakers understood about AT and access?

04/18/2026

Assistive Technology includes things like remote monitoring which allows people to stay independent in their homes but offers support and security when needed.

04/17/2026

Access to Assistive Technology can make a huge difference in someone's life— practically, emotionally, or professionally. Have you seen the impact in your life or someone you know? Share your story of AT!

04/16/2026

Assistive Technology Supports people in every environment:

- At home (I.e. – Smart home devices)
- In school (I.e. – Audiobooks, adaptive writing tools, apps)
- At work (i.e. – Ergonomic workstations, adaptive keyboards/mice)
- In the Community (i.e. – Captioned public announcements)

Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.

04/15/2026

Mainstream Assistive Technology that facilitates independence can include:

- Smartphones
- GPS Navigation
- Closed captions
- Smart home systems including sensors
- Smart watches
- Noise-canceling headphones
- Apps for organization and reminders
- Tablets with built-in accessibility features
- Technology Designed for everyone often becomes life-changing for someone.

Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.

04/14/2026

Mainstream Technology = Assistive Technology

“Not all assistive technology is specialized. Sometimes, the most powerful AT is mainstream technology used in accessible ways.”

Assistive Technology. Everywhere. Everyone.