Founded in 1987, the Center for Rehabilitation Technology (CRT) specializes in the application of technology to assist people with disabilities, of all ages, to increase their independence.
We offer evaluation, training, custom design and installation for a wide variety of assistive technologies.

The range of disabilities serviced include:

During a rehabilitation technology evaluation, CRT Specialists help consumers determine the best adaptive equipment to meet their needs. Throughout the evaluation, we encourage the full participation of the user, his or her family and other professionals who may be part of the team. This evaluation process begins with a determination of the consumer's goals, followed by an assessment of the physical and cognitive abilities that are relevant to those goals. We assess other factors, such as the environment in which the equipment will be used and the support and training available for the equipment. A selection of products of potential benefit is then made available for trial. This way, the final choice can be based on experience rather than on sales information and literature alone.

After a complete evaluation, exact product specifications and options are decided. In some cases, a knowledgeable rehabilitation technology supplier or vendor may be present to assist in the final selection of equipment. When all decisions are complete, the CRT Rehabilitation Technologist will submit a report to available funding sources that will detail and justify all equipment recommended. Our staff may also assist in setting up the equipment and training the consumer on how to use it. We may also modify equipment or manufacture custom equipment when needed.

Augmentative communication refers to a variety of communication approaches that are used to help persons who are unable to communicate their messages through natural modes of communication such as speech, gesture and writing.

For people who are unable to communicate through natural modes of speech or writing, augmentative communication devices can help them send their messages through voice or alternative methods. AAC systems include a variety of devices from simple letter boards to sophisticated electronic devices or computers with voice output. These devices can be used to supplement or replace a personsí spoken language. The augmentative communication specialist can help non-vocal people determine their most effective method of communication. One does not need to be literate to use a communication system. Often language can be represented by symbol codes. We assess language and cognition to choose an appropriate method of language representation for the use of a communication system. Individuals with all types of physical impairments can use communication devices, and determining how a client will operate a device is an important part of the evaluation. We ensure each device is customized for our clients; programming systems and follow-up training are an essential part of this service.

A job accommodation is any change to tools, work environment, or the method of work that will accommodate a disability and allow an individual with a disability to successfully complete a job. Job accommodations encompasses a wide variety of job-related adaptations, such as ergonomically designed tools, furniture, or workstations; architectural modifications such as ramps and widened doorways for wheelchair users; tools that are automated or modified to be easier to use; re-arranging work-spaces to make them more functional; instructions and reminders for those with memory difficulties; and computer adaptations and environmental controls. If someone is qualified for a job but is unable to use certain tools or perform certain tasks as a result of a disability, an accommodation may remove these barriers to employment.

Computer Access Quadriplegic person using adaptive keyboard device with computerFor persons with disabilities, computers can offer ways to do things that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. They

can provide new ways to work, to write, to organize and plan, to communicate with others, to learn, or to be entertained. Adaptive computer equipment can enhance a person's use of computers in a variety of ways. For persons with repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, ergonomic adaptations like special keyboards and workstations can help relieve and prevent pain. For persons with limitations in hand function, many alternate ways of typing and using a mouse are available. For persons with visual or other perceptual impairments, alternate types of displays can make using a computer easier. For persons with learning disabilities, computers can be an excellent tool for learning, writing, and planning. Every individual is different - but with the right adaptations, each person can get the most out of their computer.

Rehabilitation Engineering

There are circumstances where off-the-shelf products do not make a satisfactory match with the functional, vocational or educational needs of someone with a disability. In such situations, a custom approach is needed, where existing products are modified or new products created in response to a specific person's requirements.

The Center for Rehabilitation Technology has the engineering expertise required for design and fabrication. We can address electronic, mechanical, and computer-related systems in the any of CRTís other specialty areas. Resources include fully-equipped electronics and mechanical workshops staffed by professional and technical staff with experience in developing engineering solutions for people with disabilities. We have the ability to design, develop, and fabricate custom electronic modules, including embedded microprocessor systems. Precision machine tools are available for fabrication of mechanical systems. We use a wide range of computer programming and applications software to develop modifications to computer systems for clients using alternative computer access methods and non-standard hardware and software configurations.

For more information regarding the Center for Rehabilitation Technology Clinical Programs
please call: (845) 786-4123 Fax (845) 786-4951