Assistive Technology Service - Toronto Rehab/CPA Ontario
Who we are
The Assistive Technology Service (ATS) provides assessment and training for individuals with physical impairments who require the use of specialized devices to meet their writing needs. Clients may use a different type of mouse, smaller keyboards and special software programs, including speech recognition.
We are a partnership between The Canadian Paraplegic Association Ontario and Toronto Rehab’s Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, with funding from Human Resources Development Canada. The ATS is located at Toronto Rehab’s Lyndhurst Centre.
The ATS consists of an Occupational Therapist and an Assistive Technology Consultant.
We work in partnership with the Employment Resource Centre (ERC) to assist adults with mobility impairments and other disabilities in developing a self-directed plan aimed at securing employment.
We are also an Assistive Devices Program (ADP) Designated Expanded Level Clinic with the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Clinic at Toronto Rehab’s E.W. Bickle Centre for Complex Continuing Care and assist clients with obtaining equipment for basic personal writing needs.
Who do we serve?
Our clients are adults 16 years of age and older with impaired writing abilities and a:
- Spinal cord injury or related neurological impairment, or;
- Physical disability and a school / work-related goal.
Referral process
Spinal cord injury or related neurological impairment:
- Contact the Outpatient Service Coordinator of Lyndhurst Centre at: 416-597-3422 ext. 6188
- Physician’s referral required - obtain and complete an outpatient referral formli>
-
We will contact you by phone to schedule an appointment. Please note that you may be placed on a waiting list before your initial appointment is scheduled.
Work/school related referrals for writing aids for any physical disability:
- Contact the Employment Information Officer of the Employment Resource Centre at: 416-422-5644 ext. 245
How is the process completed?
- An initial assessment is completed to determine the client’s goals, writing needs and functional abilities.
- Opportunity to complete a customized trial period to learn and practice the use of different adaptive devices.
- The client and ATS staff together determines the most appropriate method of computer access.
- ATS staff explores funding sources from government agencies including ADP, Ontario Disability Supports Program (ODSP) and other community agencies.
- A follow-up visit is arranged at the client’s home or at work to ensure that assistive devices are properly set up. There is a fee for visits to the workplace or outside the Toronto area.
Our Philosophy
- Our purpose is to provide clients with recommendations about using technology that help them to meet their goals.
- We believe that clients should be given sufficient opportunities to practice with the assistive devices in real world-settings.
- We provide clients with the resources, information, and training to assist with making educated and collaborative decisions.
- We believe that successful assistance depends on a number of factors relating to the person, their environment, and the technology.
Links
Related Organizations
Funding
Technical Support - Voice Recognition Software