For some people with disabilities getting to work and completing everyday tasks on the job can be challenging. From getting in and out of buildings to using office equipment, barriers at work can make it difficult for employees with disabilities to do their best.
Assistive technology offers powerful options to help reduce or remove workplace barriers. These tools and devices allow individuals with disabilities to complete their job tasks independently and successfully.
What Is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology (AT) is any tool or system that helps a person with a disability do tasks that might be difficult or impossible without help. This is why AT can make a big difference for a person with a disability to succeed at their job.
People with disabilities, like any valuable employee, have a lot of talent and skills to offer employers, and the right AT can unlock their potential and abilities.
Types of Workplace Assistive Technology
Assistive technology comes in many forms. There are solutions for almost any workplace need. Here are some of the most common types of assistive technology:
- Tools for physical tasks: Ergonomic and adjustable desks and chairs, smaller or larger keyboards, automatic door openers, ramps and other mobility devices.
- Tools for productivity and organizing: Apps that help track tasks and help with notetaking, tools to manage time, systems that give reminders and prompts, color coding, action items provided in more than one way (verbal, written, images, etc.).
- Tools for communication: Software that turns speech into text, readers that turn text into speech, devices that help people communicate and speak at the press of a button, voice amplification.
- Tools for seeing and hearing: Screen readers and magnifiers, using large print, devices that caption in real time, sound amplification including mics and speaker systems, and hearing aids.
For people who live in the state, the Connecticut Tech Act Project is a great resource for people with disabilities to find, get, and use assistive technology to be more independent at work, college and in daily life.
How to Get Started with Assistive Technology?
For parents thinking about their child's future job options, or adults with disabilities looking for ways to reduce barriers on the job, finding the right assistive technology can make all the difference. Here are a few ways to do so:
- Figure out what's difficult - Which tasks are hard but could made easier with the right tools? What work settings cause problems? Knowing where your challenges are is a great first step.
- Look into AT options - There are lots of resources out there. The Job Accommodation Network (or AskJan) is a good starting place to help get ideas about possible AT solutions. Connecticut's Assistive Technology program, the CT Tech Act Project can also guide you in the right direction. You can get an AT demonstration for a chance to try out devices and tools and figure out the right AT for you.
- Find ways to pay for AT – There may be programs or grants to help cover the costs of Assistive Technology devices. The CT Tech Act Project can help you find funding sources.
- Talk with your employer - Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), "reasonable accommodations" may be available for eligible employees, which may include Assistive Technology devices and workplace tools.
At work, the benefits of assistive technology go beyond the individual. Universal Design puts tools in place that can help the whole team work better.
Moving Forward Together
Tomorrow's workplace will be more flexible, responsive, and welcoming to all people, and with the right tools in place each employee can reach their full potential. Teams with good support work better — the right tools don't just make work possible—they help everyone do their best.
To learn more about assistive technology for work, school, and daily life, check out the upcoming Tech Tools for Life Conference. This event shows the newest assistive technology and offers workshops on how to use these tools in different settings, including at work.
Sign up by May 23, 2025, for the Tech Tools for Life Conference and see how assistive technology can turn challenges into chances for success.