News
Assistive Technology: Helpful Tools for Everyday Life
October 27, 2026
Have you ever heard the term “assistive technology”? You might be surprised to learn that you’ve used it—or even use it every day—without realizing it! From the glasses on your nose to the captions on your favorite show, assistive technology is all around us, making life easier in ways big and small.
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology is any device or item that helps a person with a disability to do something on their own. Assistive Technology does not have to be high-tech or expensive; if it helps someone do something they otherwise couldn’t, it counts as assistive technology.
What are some examples of Assistive Technology?
Some low-tech assistive technologies are everyday items you might not even think about, such as eyeglasses, walking canes, or desk fidgets.
Some medium-tech examples of assistive technology are: hearing aids, specialized keyboards, and specialized alarm clocks.
High-tech assistive technology can be really impressive. It can include: specialized motorized wheelchairs or special software that reads text out loud or helps you type by speaking.
What is not Assistive Technology?
Service animals and Personal Care Assistants are not assistive technology. If it breathes, it is not assistive technology. Think of AT as the helpful gadgets and tools, not people or animals.
When can Assistive Technology be used?
Assistive technology can be used anytime someone with a disability needs support. Some people use it every day. Others use it only for certain tasks, such as working on a computer, cooking, cleaning, or getting around safely.
What do I do if I need Assistive Technology?
If you think you may need assistive technology, start by asking for help where you need the support. An evaluation may be done first to learn what tools would be most helpful.
For school: If a child needs assistive technology at school, this can be raised to the child’s IEP or 504 team. The team may decide an evaluation is needed to help decide what assistive technology could help the child at school.
For work: If assistive technology is needed for a job, the state vocational rehabilitation agency may be able to help. For eligible people with disabilities, they may provide an evaluation to decide what tools could make working easier or safer.
For daily life: The South Carolina Assistive Technology Program can help people learn about and try different assistive technology options.