lebanon ohio— Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) has been awarded a grant to establish a studio that will bring smart technology to the individuals we serve.
The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities will award Innovative Technology Solutions grants to organizations that aim to address existing gaps, promote technology integration, and enhance support options for Ohioans with developmental disabilities. Offered every year.
WCBDD Superintendent Megan Manuel said the board awarded a $25,000 grant to establish an Assistive Technology Studio, a space similar to a modern studio apartment equipped with assistive technology to help individuals live independently. He said he received it.
“We are very grateful that the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities awarded WCBDD this $25,000 grant,” Manuel said. “This will allow us to offer the people we serve the opportunity to experience assistive technology that can help them live safer and more independent lives.”
The Supportive Technology Studio, scheduled to be completed this summer, will include:
● iGuardStove is a safety tool that uses motion sensing to turn off your stove when the kitchen is unoccupied.
● All-in-one smart washer and dryer that pre-measures laundry detergent, controls it with your smartphone, and sends text message reminders when your laundry is ready.
● Medication dispensers that provide medication reminders to individuals and their caregivers.
● Amazon Alexa to perform tasks, give reminders, and assist with execution functions.
●A tablet that facilitates communication.
● Adaptive gaming equipment that allows people with physical disabilities to play video games.
WCBDD Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator Kelly Hampton said the Supportive Technology Studio provides individuals with hands-on experience with technology and “explores what is possible.”
Visitors will have the opportunity to learn first-hand about technology's capabilities, potential benefits, and its role in promoting independence.
For individuals who cannot come to the studio, WCBDD plans to create “go bags” of portable assistive technology so that individuals can try out the technology at home.
The Supportive Technology Studio provides individuals with the opportunity to practice using assistive technology and gain independence before using it at home. Simulated remote support allows teams to use assistive technology in the studio to observe in-person support and gradually fade out. Hampton looks forward to helping everyone served by WCBDD explore, identify and obtain assistive technology solutions tailored to their needs.
Given the shortage of direct support professionals (DSPs), Hampton emphasized the importance of considering assistive technology and remote support options as alternatives to increase a person's autonomy, independence and quality of life. did.
About Hampton
As the Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator, Hampton seeks technology solutions that promote independence and improve the quality of life for the people we serve.
Prior to working at WCBDD, Hampton earned a degree in special education from The Ohio State University and worked extensively with assistive technology as an intervention specialist for 12 years.
Hampton learned about disability services first-hand when her daughter received assistance through the Help Me Grow program.
For more information about Innovative Technology Solutions grants, remote support, and assistive technology, contact Kellie Hampton at kellie.hampton@warrencountydd.org or (513) 256-3246.
