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SNorman
What: Annual Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Conference and Exhibition
Where: Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel and Convention Center, Schaumburg (Chicago), Illinois
When: October 27-30, 2010
Why: Over 150 assistive technology educational sessions will be offered, you can browse through the latest devices available in the exhibit hall, and you can connect with other professionals, parents, users, or manufacturers. The sessions focus on several assistive technology related issues, including everyday technologies, research and professional development, augmentative and alternative communication, and policy to practice. Free CEUs will be offered.
Register online today!
Person using Braille display, photo credited to holisticmonkey on flickr
R.J. Crace is the first student ever to win the President’s Award for outstanding contribution to public debate. This award is typically given to teams or coaches, but this year Crace took home the prize for his hard-earned accomplishments. Completely blind and hearing impaired, Crace went up against many challenges to help his team win 2010 NEDA tournament for Ball State University. Congratulations!
Crace graduated with honors from Ball State University this Spring. As a Communications major, he reported for the university’s television station and is fond of doing radio. Watch a video interview with Crace on Fox 59.
Did you know that May is Older Americans Month? If you know someone facing challenges due to aging, consider assistive technology. Maybe they could use a grab bar for the tub, or some adaptive cooking utensils. We’ve gathered up a list of items from MaxiAids to give you an idea of what might be helpful to a person who is aging.
Low Vision Calender from MaxiAids
“What is today’s date?” This calender is perfect for being able to know the date just by glancing at it. Its large numbers are easy to read and you can hang it on the wall or prop it up on your desk.
Jitterbug J from MaxiAids
The more cell phones they come out with, the more complicated they are to use! This Jitterbug cell phone is stripped of all the fancy extras that an older person might not care about anyway. Every choice can be made by pressing the Yes or No buttons, the text on the screen is large print, and the speaker has reduced background noise for better sound quality.
Single Super Grip by MaxiAids
This piece of assistive technology can help you get in and out of the tub easily, without fear of slipping. Its sturdy suction cup will attach to a smooth surface by pressing it down and flipping the switch. Get a grip!
Voice Recording Key Finder by MaxiAids
You will never lose your keys again with this great device. All you have to do is whistle and this key chain will beep to help you find it. You can also record short reminders about where you parked, or driving directions.
Tomato/Onion Slicer by MaxiAids
Slicing up veggies can be tricky if you don’t want to cut your fingers. This guide will hold your food in place and prevent injury while it helps you make consistent slices.
These are just a few examples offered by MaxiAids. Didn’t see anything that suits you? Check out their website and browse the many types of assistive technology devices available!
Click here to learn about the history of Older Americans Month.
May 242010
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Remember the Media Access Group at WGBH? We wrote about them in our Accessible Movie Theaters post a while ago. Now we are pleased to discover that this fine organization has complied a comprehensive list of movies that are available on DVD with audio description.
Audio description allows for more accessibility among people with disabilities. Without it, a person with low vision would not be able to enjoy films in the same capacity that people without low vision do. Audio description typically narrates characters, actions, scenery, and is careful not to overlap the movie’s dialog. This is done by the Descriptive Video Service (DVS).
If you buy a DVD through Amazon via the Media Access Group website, the nonprofit organization will receive a portion of the proceeds.
Some of the DVDs listed include Up, Cinderella Man, 500 Days of Summer, Avatar, Julie & Julia, Public Enemies, and Toy Story. Click here for the complete list.