Mobility problems are being solved with innovative technologies such as machines that allow disabled persons to control computers with the movement of their eyes.
The Eyegaze Edge Communications System from QuadAdapt and LC Technologies Inc. is one of many assistive technology products that took the spotlight at the first Alabama Assistive Technology Expo and Conference last week.
Assistive technology is generally described as any form of technology that assists individuals with disabilities.
The conference attracted about 200 attendees, including consumers, caregivers, teachers and other professionals.
The two-day event featured two keynote speakers in addition to breakout sessions with presenters on a variety of topics, from classroom solutions to home modifications and how to implement the latest technologies to aid people with disabilities.
Thursday's keynote speaker, Robert Rummel-Hudson, shared his personal struggles with his daughter Schuyler's disease. Schuyler was born with a rare neurological brain disorder called bilateral perisylvian polymicrogyria, which prevents her from being able to speak.
Rummel-Hudson spoke about his family's experience with assistive technology for Schuyler, especially a device that helps Schuyler to talk: Prentke Romich's Vantage Lite speech-output device--or as Schuyler calls it, her "big box of words."
The Prentke Romich Company was one of the 25 vendors that were at the conference to exhibit new technology and distribute information.
"From an informational standpoint, there's just so much information to learn," Rummel-Hudson said about the importance of vendors at a convention like ALATEC. "There's some crazy stuff out there. It's like magic."
The conference included artificial limbs, specially designed vans and technology for people with low vision or blindness.
"Assistive technology is... the great equalizer for individuals with disabilities, and if we can learn how to use it, people with disabilities can live the American dream," said Kate Musgrove, graduate student in rehabilitation counseling.
The tour of the Auburn University Center for Disability Research and Service highlighted assistive technologies on campus.
Scott Renner, coordinator of assistive technology, conducted the tour Thursday and Friday.
The main focus, Renner said, was "how we could really be the leader in maybe developing an annual assistive technology conference and partnering with the Alabama Department of Rehab Services and partnering with our other agencies that really work with people with disabilities."
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