June 2000 ~ Volume 2, Issue 11 Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library NewsLetter A Monthly Newsletter for Local Branches of Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library Product Focus: Assistive Technology and Hidden Disabilities Hidden Disabilities Developmental disabilities, learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder, brain injury and numerous other disabilities involve functional deficits relating to cognition. Generally cognitive challenges fall into the areas listed below, and involve the brain's inability or decreased ability to process, retrieve, store and manipulate information. Included are some possible accommodations that may be appropriate for each category. Difficulties with understanding what is read; the inability to comprehend written information: Computer system with voice output/screen reading Optical Character Recognition (OCR) Use cognitive mapping software Recorded or audio books Other low-tech or no-tech strategies: Improved lighting Highlight critical parts of a passage Provide person with a human reader Use outlines of important text for visual reinforcement Use pictures/cognitive mapping Use a pointer to keep track of reading position Difficulty with visual perception and discrimination: Hand-held calculator with large visual display Talking calculator Tape recorder CD based math software with on-screen worksheet Computer system with voice output/screen reading Curriculum-based software with video for reinforcement Other low-tech or no-tech strategies: Color coding Large square graph paper 3D tactile models for "hands-on" learning Video taped lessons Difficulty with organization and concentration: Time management software with reminders Wrist watch with alarm Portable electronic organizer Voice organizer Electronic paging system Database software Other low-tech or no-tech strategies: Highlighter pens Color coding/tabs/pictures Post-It Notes Communication strategies Headphones / earplugs Word processing features Homework Communication Book Difficulty caused by being easily distracted: Cassettes with music / "white noise" Time management device with vibrating buzzer Other low-tech or no-tech strategies: Adjust environment for sound / color / brightness Separate work environment / soundproof room partitions Flexible work hours Headphones / earplugs Difficulty with memory function: Cognitive reminders / computer Programmable clocks Time management notebook software Use of electronic journals to record activities Electronic paging System Programmable Watch Curriculum-based software with video for reinforcement Other low-tech or no-tech strategies: Group information / short sections Planning rehearsals or other mnemonic techniques Cognitive Modeling or other alternative instructional strategies Use speed dialing / photo phone Color coded chart to organize tasks Difficulty with problem-solving abilities: Visual displays for reinforcement/ warnings Troubleshooting charts/ computer-based Math software that sequences problems Mnemonic device with alerting system Other low-tech or no-tech strategies: Break down tasks or 'chunk' information for presentation Source: Assistive Technologies for Cognitive Disabilities, Tech Connections, UCPA, http://www.techconnections.org/about_at/cognitive.html Conditions That May Result in a Need for Cognitive Aids: Autism Spectrum Disorder including Pervasive Developmental Disability (PDD) and Asperger's Syndrome; Chronic Pain and or Fatigue (CFS/FMS), Epilepsy, learning disability, mental illness, mental retardation, Multiple Sclerosis, stroke, substance abuse, brain injury, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease, etc. Cognition Defined Cognition: Thinking skills such as knowing, awareness, perceiving objects, remembering ideas, understanding, reasoning. Executive Functions: These includes such higher level abilities as abstract reasoning, logical analysis, hypothesis testing, and cognitive flexibility, or the ability to "shift gears" mentally. The ability to focus, shift, and distribute attention, organize information into memory to aid learning and remembering, and otherwise regulate thought processes are also examples of executive functions. Please Welcome Our New Local Branches! Bethphage / Clearfield County 910 Beaver Drive, DuBois, PA 15801 Contact Person: Laura Petro Ph: (814) 375-9066 ~ Fax: (814) 375-9416 Web: http://www.bethphage.org ~ E-mail: lpietro@penn.com Laurel Behavioral Health / Tioga County 32-36 Central Avenue, Wellsboro, PA Contact Person: Kimberly Linhares Ph: (570) 723-0530 ~ Fax: (570) 724-0675 E-mail: klinhares@laurelhs.org PRODUCT FOCUS: Assistive Technology and Hidden Disabilities Aids for Organization, Planning and Memory Parrot Plus v3 Parrot Plus uses your voice, the quickest way to communicate, to find information. Just one word, and it will go right to what you are looking for. Every key, function and option are spoken. A compact and lightweight voice interactive unit that allows anyone to use its many functions through voice commands and responses, it offers a telephone directory, address book, voice notepad, meeting planner, musical and talking alarm clock, talking calculator and PC interface. Has 13 minutes of recording memory. Approx: $200; Inventory Code: HP-PARROT; From: Maxi-Aids, Inc. WatchMinder The WatchMinder is a training and reminder system to assist people with a wide variety of disabilities. Because it looks like any other watch, there are fewer negative social drawbacks. It includes a silent vibrator alarm system (similar to that of a common pager), an eight-character display for text messages, 16 daily alarms, training and reminder modes and a clip to wear on hip/belt and a strap to wear on wrist. It can be programmed as a medication reminder for home health care patients or the elderly and can assist in behavior modification programs. In addition to the standard wristwatch, there are two special features (modes) in the WatchMinder which can be operative at the same time. The 'Pay Attention/ Training Mode' uses a shorter vibration to help the wearer to pay attention, self-monitor or modify a specific behavior; and the 'Reminder Mode' uses a longer vibration to remind the wearer to do a specific task or activity. The individual's entire day can be programmed, and numerous messages can be displayed throughout the day (up to 65 messages a day including: PAY ATTEN, RELAX, GOOD JOB, STOP). Approx: $88; Inventory Code: call for inventory code; From: WatchMinder. Voice Manager The Voice-It Manager combines long-capacity digital recording with organizer features. You can keep all your messages, notes, reminders, calendar schedules and phone numbers in one compact, easy to use recorder/organizer. The Voice-It Manager features five channels to organize messages under the names you choose. Message alarms, 99 year calendar, phone databank and auto-dialer are all easy-to-use functions of this device. Flash memory technology insures that messages, calendar information and phone numbers are never lost, even when you remove the batteries. Approx: $199; Inventory Code: HP-VMANAGE; From: Voice-It International, Inc. http://www.voice-it.com Palm IIIc The Palm IIIc “handheld” has electronic productivity tools to keep a busy life organized, including a date book calendar where you can store up to 5 years of appointments, an address book where you can keep addresses at your fingertips; a "to-do list" that keeps thousands of 'to-do' items close at hand; a memo pad that allows you to jot down notes, compose e-mail, and more; e-mail storage where you can download e-mail from your PC's desktop and save it there; an expense record where you can track all your expenses in one convenient place; and an easy find feature to locate information on your Palm easily. The HotSync cradle synchronizes all your information with your desktop PC at the touch of a button. For increased physical access to this rather small device, we automatically include the Portable Keyboard when you borrow the Palm Pilot from the Lending Library. This full-size keyboard folds into a size just slightly bigger than the Palm organizer itself and weighs less than 8 ounces. Customized 'quick keys' allows you to quickly navigate to your Date Book, Address Book, and other applications at the touch of a button. Up to nine user-programmable keys let you instantly access the applications and programs you use most frequently. Keyboard, Approx: $99; Palm Pilot, Approx: $449; Inventory Code: HP-PALM. Both items can be purchased online at PC Connection.com, and are also available through various local retailers, such as Comp USA and Staples. Voice Diary This is a completely voice controlled electronic organizer. Each key is shaped and oriented differently for easy tactual recognition and a voice prompt accompanies every keystroke. The compact unit measures 5 1/2" x 2 1/4" x 1 1/4" and weighs 6-1/4 oz. It has 30 minutes of recording time and runs on rechargeable batteries. Its features include an appointment calendar, message pad, daily "to-do" list, talking calculator, talking clock, 127-name pad, tone dialing and many more. It can be linked to a computer for storing data and updating software. Approx: $230; Inventory Code: HP-VDIARY; From: Independent Living Aids, Inc. Speaking Homework Wiz The Speaking Homework Wiz shows kids how to write an assigned word, providing an instant penmanship lesson on any letter or word, in manuscript or cursive style. It also includes four built-in word games, a 'User List' for homework assignments, and automatic shut-off to save battery life. The Speaking Homework Wiz answers the question "How can I look it up if I don't know how to spell it?" Plus, it pronounces all words and definitions. Franklin provides educational materials and fun learning exercises to promote proper usage of these tools, free-of-charge, on their website at: http://www.franklin.com. Approx: $50; Inventory Code: ED-FSHWIZ; From: Franklin Learning Resources. Cognitive Aids that Promote Independence Quarter Hour Watch This device provides a time management solution for individuals unable to tell time. It lowers the level of abstraction to allow the use of "time" without needing to read a clock face. Events are presented by pictures on the watch making it easy to understand. The Quarter Hour Watch is battery operated and comes with 10 plastic chips, a mounting rack and carry bag. Use any labels or symbol system for pictures (e.g. PCS, Imaginart, WordWise, Pictogram, or photographs, cut-outs from magazines, etc.). Size: 5-1/8" x 3-5/32" x 1-3/16", Weight: 0.5 lbs. Approx: $400; Inventory Code: HP-QWATCH; From: ACCI, Inc. The PCS Symbol Set can be ordered separately from the Lending Library inventory: AC-SW-ICON. Photo Dial Phone This amplified Photo Dial Phone has 12 windows into which can be placed 1-1/2" x 1-1/8" photos of family members or symbols for the fire department, police, school or any other number you call frequently. Each key can be programmed to dial the person or place when that photo is pushed. The phone can also be used as a standard dialer with re-dial, a ringing volume selector, adjustable ringing melody, tone or pulse dialing, a pause key and a flash key . Measures approximately 8-1/4" X 8-1/2". Approx: $45; Inventory Code: TL-PP; From: Independent Living Aids, Inc. Franklin Speaking Dictionary and Thesaurus w/Headphones The Merriam-Webster Speaking Electronic Dictionary and Thesaurus with an 8-line display includes 120,000 words, 300,000 definitions, 500,000 thesaurus entries, learning exercises, grammar guide, SAT word list, etc. You can view definitions, synonyms, antonyms, and related words and hear them pronounced for auditory reinforcement. You can browse the SAT word list, create your own list of study words, or highlight a word in a definition and instantly find its meaning. Use the grammar guide to get a comprehensive outline of English grammar, increase vocabulary by setting the unit to 'Learn a new word' each time you turn it on, and 'Find a word' even when you misspell it. Franklin provides educational materials and fun learning exercises to promote proper usage of these tools, free-of-charge, on their website at: http://www.franklin.com. (Spanish/ESL version is also available in the Lending Library: ED-FSE). Approx: $120; Inventory Code: ED-FSDICT; From: Franklin Learning Resources, Inc. TimePAD Memo An easy and versatile memo recorder and timer, the TimePAD allows 5 personalized messages (totaling 72 seconds) to be played back up to 5 times each day, whether one day or seven days a week. You can record a message such as "It's 1 PM, time to take your medicine" and program the TimePAD to make this announcement each day of the week at 1 PM. Also functions as a communication aid by pressing a button. Its step-by-step instructions are easy to follow, but if assistance is needed, the manufacturer has a toll-free number for technical support. Measures 4" x 2 1/4" by 1/4" and comes with a pocket/visor clip. Approx: $49; Inventory Code: HP-TIMEPAD (previously called DigiPad, see also: HP-DIGIPAD); From: Attainment Software, Inc. Quicktionary Reading Pen This portable hand-held scanner reads and speaks almost a half a million words. Just roll the tip of the pen over most books or newspapers, and it will display the words on its LCD screen and pronounce the words over the built-in speaker or earphones that come with the device. It also displays syllables, spells the words out loud, keeps a history of scanned words, scans inverted and hyphenated words, contains over 200,000 definitions, adjusts for left and right handed users, and includes a video tutorial and manual on audio cassette. Approx: $275; Inventory Code: ED-QUICK; From: Seiko Instruments USA, Inc. Software that Promotes Independent Living Skills Plan Your Day Students can learn how to follow a schedule, even if they can't tell time or remember the date. Set up a talking picture schedule for each student. Choose from 85 activities in six categories: School, work, community, health, sports and recreation. Sequence illustrations to reflect a student's schedule. Set the digital clock for each activity. Students review schedule on the computer, then follow the picture printout throughout the day. Ideal for helping students get to their next class on time, planning weekend activities or involving participants in community-based instruction. Win/Mac CD-ROM; Approx: $59; Inventory Code: ED-SW-PYD; From: Attainment Software, Inc. Coming Soon! The Picture Cue Software Collection from Attainment Keeping House: This talking program features 63 housekeeping activities organized by home location. Looking Good: This talking program features 63 personal care activities. Select-A-Meal: Students learn food vocabulary and prepare for restaurant outings. Success Stories at Work: Video-based CD-ROM provides realistic role models for your transition students. Computers at Work: Teach work skills at the computer. This vocational training CD-ROM focuses on entry level computer skills that prepare users for office jobs. Social Skills at Work: A video-based CD-ROM featuring transition-age workers in real jobs. Personal Success: Reinforce hygiene, dressing and personal care skills. A multimedia program targeting essential activities for personal care-both simple and challenging. Community Success: Addresses both social considerations and step-by-step instructions. Please call Zona Martin, Project Assistant if you are interested in borrowing these items upon their arrival! Dollars and Cents A bundle of talking software money programs present a well-rounded money management curriculum that progresses in difficulty. This bundle includes: First Money Level I: Take the first step in independent money management. Voice prompts and graphics cue users to move through these segments: Money names, equal value and what's it worth. For example, students learn that a quarter equals two dimes and a nickel, and that a ten dollar bill equals two fives. First Money offers display or quiz options. Spending Money Level II: A more advanced program in which users buy products like sweaters or soft drinks. Students select bills and coins and receive change. With a shopping list and computer cash, users browse through eight stores in a "money mall." Features an 'exercise' or 'shopping' option. In 'exercises', the teacher determines if the student pays with coins, bills or both; or if student pays with exact change or not. In shopping option, teacher decides how much the student has available to spend, and the program generates a shopping list. Making Change Level III: The most advanced money program, users function like any store clerk: they enter purchases and give change back. The program randomly generates hundreds of purchasing situations and makes an excellent vocational training and applied math program. Win/Mac CD-ROM. All three programs are included on the Dollars and Cents CD-ROM when borrowing from the Lending Library. Approx: $87; Inventory code: ED-SW-$, From Attainment Software, Inc. (Download a free 30 day trial at: http://www.attainmentcompany.com/dollarsentsn.html). Transition and School-to-Work Resources National STW Learning & Information Center 400 Virginia Ave, SW, Washington, DC 20024 Ph: (800) 251-7236 ~ http://www.stw.ed.gov/ National Transition Alliance for Youth with Disabilities http://www.dssc.org/nta/ Guide for Transition Planning and Transition Plan Worksheet http://www.dssc.org/nta/html/index_2.htm EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT: ISAAC 2000 “AAC in the New Millennium” August 2 through 8, 2000 in Washington, DC Hyatt Regency Crystal City, Arlington, VA Contact for additional information: ISAAC 2000 Conference Committee Center for Applied Science & Engineering University of Delaware/ duPont Hospital for Children 1600 Rockland Road, PO Box 269, Wilmington, DE 19899 Ph: (302) 651-6790, TTY: (302) 651-6794 Register online at: http://www.isaacconference.org EVENT ANNOUNCEMENT Helping Tools for Young Children with Disabilities and Their Families: A Free Train-the-Trainer Workshop When: June 27, 2000 Where: Hershey, PA Who should attend: Parents and other family members of infants and toddlers with disabilities, early intervention providers, case managers, healthcare professionals and community educators. Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology is providing train-the-trainer sessions for individuals who are interested in learning how assistive technology (AT) can help young children and their families AND who agree to train others about the scope and benefits of assistive technology. AT devices and services can help facilitate develop and increase participation and independence. AT includes devices that can help young children with disabilities learn, communicate, move and play. Individuals who wish to participate must agree to train at least six additional parents of young children with disabilities or early intervention providers. To register or obtain additional information call Jan Knuth at (215) 204-5367 or (800) 204-7428 [TTY: (800)750-7428]. WHERE CAN I PURCHASE THESE ITEMS? Augmentative Communication Consultants, Inc. (ACCI) 280-B Moon Clinton Road ~ Dept. 96-I, Moon Township, PA 15108 Ph: (800) 982-2248 ~ Fax: (412) 269-0923 Attainment Software, Inc. PO Box 930160, Verona, WI 53593-0160 Ph: (800) 327-4269 ~ Fax: (800) 942-3865 http://www.attainmentcompany.com (Note: New web address) Don Johnston, Inc. 26799 West Commerce Drive, Volo, IL 60073 Ph: (800) 999-4660 ~ http://www.donjohnston.com Franklin Learning Resources One Franklin Plaza, Burlington, NJ 08016-4907 Ph: (800) 266-5626 ~ http://www.franklin.com Independent Living Aids, Inc. 27 East Mall. Plainview, NY 11803 Ph: (800) 537-2118 ~ Fax: (516) 752-3135 ~ http://www.independentliving.com Intellitools, Inc. 55 Leveroni court, Suite 9, Novato, CA 94949 Ph: (800) 899-6687 ~ Fax: (415) 382-5950 ~ http://www.intellitools.com Maxi-Aids, Inc. 42 Executive Blvd, Farmingdale, New York 11735 Ph: (516) 752-0521 ~ Fax: (516) 752-0689 ~ http://www.maxiaids.com/ Seiko Instruments USA, Inc. 29990 West Lomita Blvd, Torrance, CA 90505 Ph: (877) 344-4040 ~ Fax: (310) 517-7793 ~ http://www.readingpen.com WatchMinder 5405 Alton Pkwy #5A, Irvine, CA 92604-3718 Ph: (800) 961-0023 ~ http://www.watchminder.com/ REMINDER: Identifying assistive technology solutions is best done by focusing on the task or function with which the person needs assistance, rather than on the individual's disability label. For example, people with mental illness may need an organizer such as the Parrot Plus to assist with time management, or adapted silverware to address a tremor resulting from medication. NEXT MONTH: AT IN THE EARLY YEARS Editor: Anne Macleod E-mail: tq97@philly.infi.net CONTACT INFORMATION: Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library Institute on Disabilities UAP/ Temple University Room 423 Ritter Hall Annex Philadelphia, PA 19122 Call toll-free: 877-PA AT LEND (voice/TTY) [ 877-722-8537 ] http://www.temple.edu/inst_disabilities/atlend E-mail: piat@astro.temple.edu NEXT MONTH: AT FOR HIDDEN DISABILITIES This Newsletter is available in alternate formats upon request or visit our webpage for text and PDF versions. http://www.temple.edu/inst_disabilities/atlend/news/