2011 SC Assistive Technology Expo

The 2011 SC Assistive Technology Expo is being held on Tuesday, March 15 in Columbia at the Columbia Conference Center.
Exhibits and fifteen workshops provide the once-a-year opportunity, free of charge, to see and try the latest assistive technology. Opportunities for networking are tremendous!

This year people can also have non-electronic equipment cleaned and sanitized at a Hubscrub event, co-sponsored with the Disability Action Center and Walton Options for Independent Living. We would really appreciate your sharing this information with nursing homes, churches and assisted living facilities in Columbia, especially those near the Conference Center (off I26 between St. Andrews and Piney Grove Road). The Hubscrub doesn’t come this way very often; don’t miss this chance to clean, sanitize and prolong the life of your equipment!

There are several workshops of particular interest:

Staying Connected: AAC for Adults
Components of effective evaluation and treatment for adults needing augcom or adaptive equipment. Importance of communication about stages of progression in diseases such as ALS. Benefits of early introduction to AT and hands-on trials to facilitate communication, computer access, telephone access and other environmental controls. Types of AT and practical application. Amy Wright, SLP, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, NC

The Evolving World of Digital Audio Books and Players
Update on new digital book players and refinements to existing players that benefit readers of all ages. Sources and resources. Marty McKenzie, Clay Jeffcoat, SCSDB

Perspectives on Home Modifications
Practical/economical considerations in reducing barriers related to vision, hearing and mobility challenges. Resources, real life experiences. Todd Batt, Rehab Engineer, SCVRD, Wesley Farnum, Building Contractor, Roger Williams, SCDMH, Jed Elmaleh, PT. Facilitator: Catherine Graham, Rehab Engineer, USC SOM

Vehicle Modifications and Adapted Driving
Overview of resources available to people who need adapted driving instruction, support and resources. Considerations, options and resources available to those who need modified vehicles. Tom Jackman, Rehab Engineer, SCVRD, Leslie Shipp, SCVRD, Jed Elmaleh, PT

Finding Your Way Through the AT Maze
Where do you start if you know you might need assistive technology? Overview of South Carolina's online resources for AT evaluation, funding, acquisition, application and support. Resources from SC Access and the new Aging and Disability Resource Centers. Denise Rivers, Lt. Governor's Office on Aging

Apps Galore! Educational Applications for the iPad/iTouch/iPhone
Features and options of iPads and iTouches (many free or low-cost) that are universally designed to meet the needs of many students. Integrated accessibility options and a wide range of education applications, for students with disabilities and those needing additional support to be successful in the classroom or in other environments. Stacy Springer, OTR/L, Val Gioia, SCDE AT Specialists

Assistive Technology Reutilization in South Carolina
Overview of programs and resources to find and share used equipment at reduced prices or even free of charge. Online programs, equipment centers, agency collaboration and future growth of these initiatives. Catherine Graham, Rehab Engineer, USC SOM, Janet Jendron, SCATP, Kimberly Tissot, DAC

Brain Injury and Assistive Technology
Latest technology that can help people with brain injury and memory challenges, such as GPS systems, cell phones, and iPads. How everyday technology can be used to help with daily life. Perspective and experiences from a consumer who uses a variety of these options. Janet Spires, RN, SCVR