Assistive Technology
written by Raymond E. Montgomery Sr.
There are many misconceptions or misperceptions about the capabilities of people with disabilities. This makes finding gainful employment for those living with a disability, a daunting challenge. Thankfully, awareness is growing about the assistive technology used by people with various physical or intellectual challenges, opening up more doors to success for those with disabilities.
According to the World Health Organization, over a billion people (about 15% of the world’s population) have some form of disability and this is increasing due to population aging and a surge in chronic health conditions.*
The following assistive technology allows individuals with disabilities to perform tasks such as work, attend school and connect with the world around them:
Screen-reading and magnification software: Converts the text on the screen to speech output. Enabling people with low vision to operate computers, smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices independently.
Speech input software: Provides individuals with difficulty typing an alternate way to type text and control the computer.
Alternative input devices: This allows a person who may not be able to use a mouse or keyboard an alternate way to use a computer.
Other examples of assistive technology include adaptive keyboards, hearing aids, mobility aids and braille display.
Assistive technologies are defined as hardware/software that enables people with different types of disabilities to break barriers and achieve better results in their employment and education goals. In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), we want to inform employers about the many assistive technology devices that enable those in the disability community to work in the field of their choice.
Assistive or adaptive technology is removing access barriers that prevented those who are disabled to reach their full potential. Since the emergence of assistive technology, individuals living with a disability are able to carry out routine tasks at work and school so they can be more independent.
In Conclusion
During NDEAM, we encourage employers to ask prospective employees who may have a disability, how they use a computer, smartphone, read emails, or even how they get back and forth to work. Before they dismiss a person based on their disability. With that in mind, assistive technology has helped people with disabilities work in an array of professions and industries that is constantly evolving.
To learn how assistive technology can help you continue your education or employment or allow you to live independently, please visit us on the web at www.worktoinclude.org.
*(WHO, 2018)
About the writer
Raymond E. Montgomery Sr. has been a regional coordinator for Work to Include (WTI) since July of 2021. Ray also works as an outreach coordinator at a local not-for-profit that creates job opportunities and comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals experiencing vision loss. Ray is passionate about bringing awareness to the capabilities of people who are blind or have other disabilities. For the past four years, Ray has been heavily involved with the National Federation of the Blind (NFb) and other advocacy groups determine to invoke systemic change for those in the disability community. Ray’s advocacy efforts include working with legislators and other disability-led groups on legislation to protect the rights of parents living with a disability.
As a man who is blind. Ray has experienced discrimination due to his blindness, but never let that stop him from pursuing his goals. He is also a father of three, Purdue graduate, mentor, and advocate. Ray is very excited to be a part of the WTI team and looks forward to working with other WTI teams across Indiana.
Raymond E. Montgomery Sr., Regional Coordinator, Work to Include