Assistive technology
What is the purpose of the Assistive Technology service?
The Assistive Technology service at the NSIC enables everyone, regardless of the level of their spinal cord injury, to independently use a computer, tablet or phone.
The service is managed by Aspire, the spinal injuries charity, working alongside the NHS, and there is a full time Assistive Technologist based at the NSIC.
Aspire’s Assistive Technologist is able to demonstrate and trial different options for accessing your device:
We can work with your own device or use those we have in the unit.
We can explore how you can use your device, eg
- for leisure, such as watching catch up TV
- online shopping
- online banking
- keeping in touch with friends and family
- or to help you return to work.
Even if you have not used a device for any of these things in the past we can show you how they might be useful and how they can be accessed.
Every solution is personal:
- We use a range of hardware and software with options for Mac and Windows computers, and Android and Apple smartphones and tablets
- We use different types of mice such as a trackball, head tracking, Sip/Puff joystick or eye tracking technology
- We also use voice recognition software for dictating text or for controlling your device, as well as various styluses and switches
- Some of these options can also be used for gaming on a range of platforms.
The main purpose is to find what works for you.
If you would like more information about Aspire’s Assistive Technology service or to discuss further, please speak to your Occupational Therapist (OT) or have look at the Aspire website: https://www.aspire.org.uk
Alison Barnes is the Assistive Technologist, T: 07769 914865
