Assistive Technology Programs
Technology can be life-changing for children and adults with cerebral palsy and many other physically limiting conditions. Applying technology to enhance participation in everyday life is what the Perlman Center does best. Your child’s individualized technology plan may include some or all of the following:
- Communication aids to encourage better interactions at home, school and the community
- Environmental controls to adjust lights, operate audiovisual equipment, etc.
- Equipment to support activities of daily living, such as bathing and standing
- Home modifications, such as patient lifts and ramps
- In-services and consultations to help schools support the use of technology
- Mobility devices such as high-end power wheelchairs
- Positioning aids to support sitting, standing and sleeping
- Technology adaptations to make using the computer easier and more enjoyable
Assistive Technology Evaluations and Support
Our team provides comprehensive assistive technology evaluations and matches people to the right technology for their unique needs. We also train people to use and integrate technologies into everyday life, going above and beyond to help them be as independent as possible. When we recommend technology, families receive funding more than 90% of the time—an excellent track record. And we work closely with vendors to ensure that equipment delivery and set-up meet our high standards.
Assistive Technology Solutions for Teens and Adults
The Perlman Center offers a specialized technology program for teens and adults at our Stepping Stones location in nearby Norwood, Ohio. Occupational, physical and speech therapists work with teens, adults, and their families to develop a plan of care that centers on how technology can support independence and an improved quality of life. Our team helps teens and adults find the specialized equipment and augmentative communication they need and trains them to use it effectively.
Assistive Technology Solutions for People with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Assistive technology can make life easier and better for people with ALS. Our speech therapists provide a complete evaluation and recommend technology that meets each person’s needs. One area of focus is augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). AAC strategies allow people to communicate when they do not have the physical ability to use verbal speech. Examples include using speech-generating devices and sign language.
Teach Me Tech for School-Aged Children and Teens
Our Teach Me Tech program is for children and teens with cerebral palsy and other disabilities who rely on technology to help them read, write and communicate. Occupational and speech therapists work with groups of four to six kids to encourage interactive learning and build communication skills. Groups meet for about two hours a week for eight weeks.
Adapted Play Sessions For Children Ages 2–12 Years: Play for All!
Play is an essential activity for children. But playtime isn’t always easy or fun for kids who have difficulty opening their hands or keeping their hands closed. That’s why we developed Play for All! This program offers two to three sessions with an occupational therapist specializing in cerebral palsy, adaptive play and assistive technology. The occupational therapist will:
Evaluate your child’s abilities and interests related to play
Set play goals with your family
Help you know what to look for when selecting toys and how to modify toys to meet your child’s needs
Look for ways to add playtime to your child’s and family’s routines
Play for All! is designed for children ages 2 through 12 who need help playing with toys because of limited use of their hands.
