Assistive Technology Assessments for Adults in Wisconsin
Individualized technology solutions that support independence at work, at home, and in the community. We work with DVR counselors, care management agencies, employers, and families throughout Wisconsin.
Who We Serve
We work with:
Adults with disabilities
Vocational rehabilitation agencies
Employers
Case managers
Families
Adult service providers
Our assessments focus on real environments and real goals
What We Evaluate
Assessments may include:
Workplace task analysis
Communication systems (including AAC)
Digital organization tools
Computer and device access
Environmental controls
Independent living technology
Safety supports
Executive functioning tools
What Makes Our Approach Different?
While there are hundreds of amazing tools out there (and we make it our job to learn about as many as possible), there are likely only a few that meet your specific needs and situation. Our goal is to avoid “shiny object syndrome” and make sure that the tools we recommend are the best for you- not just the newest and shiniest tool on the market.
We follow that assessment up with comprehensive training to make sure that you (and your team, family, caregivers) understand how to use the tool(s). We are never going to just drop a tool off on your doorstep and leave. Our job is to make sure you understand how to use the tools we recommend and that they work for you.
We prioritize:
Practical implementation
Real-world environments
Collaborative problem solving
Training that supports long-term success
Who Refers To Us:
We work with a wide variety of funding providers, including care management organizations, DVR, and employers. We also can share resources for alternative funding through grant programs, etc.
DVR/Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors
Care Management Organizations (IRIS, Inclusa)
Employers
Case Managers
Families
Transition Coordinators
Ready to Begin?
Schedule a consultation to determine if an AT assessment is appropriate.
The Assessment Process
An assistive technology (AT) assessment is a process that helps an AT Specialist determine whether assistive technology tools can help you be more independent. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision about which AT tools will best help you meet your goals.
Referral: We receive your information from a referral source. This may be a school, an employer, a vocational rehabilitation program (DVR), or a care management organization.
Introduction: After we receive a referral with your information, we will contact you at your preferred method to learn a little more about you. The referrals we receive typically tell us a little about you, but we want to learn about you from you. If you are unable to communicate with us, we will look to your care team to advocate on your behalf.
Meeting: We will schedule a meeting at a time and place that is convenient for you. During this meeting, we will ask more questions. You will be interviewed to learn more about the environments you live and work in, your current tools, and your current struggles. It is important that you openly share your experiences, wants, and needs during the assessment process. During the assessment, you may be asked to perform activities with and without assistive devices. This is to help us learn what works best for you.
At the end of the meeting, we will share our findings with you and discuss potential solutions. Your input during this process is important. This discussion may include recommendations for assistive technology, types of equipment, changes to how you perform tasks, and who may help you if needed. We will also let you know whether we are ready to make recommendations or need to schedule additional meetings to continue the assessment.
Reporting: Once the assessment is complete, we will prepare a report that includes our recommendations, along with recommendations for purchasing, training, and funding. This report will be sent to the person who referred you for services. This report is typically sent within 3 weeks after the assessment is completed.
Follow Up: The person who referred you to Innov-AT will contact you to discuss the findings and determine which assistive technology tools they are willing and able to fund.
Assistive Technology Implementation Services
Implementation services include purchasing assistive technology tools, creating custom tools, delivering and setting up assistive technology, and training for you and anyone you feel would benefit from understanding it.
The implementation plan differs for each individual based on the recommended tools, the level of comfort with those tools, and the support team available.
At the start of the implementation phase, we will work with you to set goals for learning about your assistive technology and to help you understand the training options we can provide.
Implementation May Include:
Purchasing: We will purchase the requested items and ensure the correct items are delivered.
Set-Up: We will set up assistive technology at your location or deliver it to you already set up.
Custom Tool Creation: In some instances, assistive technology may need to be custom-built, designed, or modified. We will provide these custom tools to you, along with instructions for using them.
Training: We will meet with you to instruct you on how to use your assistive technology. In some instances, this may be a one-time meeting. In other instances, this may be an ongoing process to make adjustments to the AT and to help ensure you (and your care team/job coach if necessary) can use the tools effectively.
Reporting: We will provide regular updates to your referral/funding source about your progress and complete a final report once we are confident you are able to successfully use your assistive technology.
FAQs
What happens during an AT assessment?
During an AT assessment, a specialist will review your strengths, areas of need, and preferences. You will learn about potential solutions to help you be more independent, and you may be asked to trial a variety of tools.
How do I get an AT evaluation through DVR?
If you are signed up for DVR support, it is as simple as talking to your counselor. Explain your concerns and the areas you think AT may help with. If they are unsure of where to obtain an AT evaluation, feel free to share our information.
Does insurance cover assistive technology?
Private insurance or Medicaid may cover assistive technologies, such as wheelchairs and communication systems. Other assistive technologies are funded through grants, private payment, or state funding.
How long does an assistive technology assessment take?
The length of an AT assessment will depend on each individual’s needs. Often, we will gain background knowledge via a phone call before the meeting to help us prepare. Our assessment can sometimes be completed in one meeting. Other times we will require multiple meetings to trial different tools.
Do you work with adults with ADHD?
We absolutely do! We complete many assessments with individuals who struggle with executive functioning (memory, attention, organization, time management, and self-regulation). There are many assistive technology tools to help with strategies that support the executive function difficulties that come with ADHD.