Assistive Technology (AT)
Provides tools and devices that help people with disabilities perform tasks they would otherwise have difficulty with, from low-tech aids to high-tech systems.
What Is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology (AT) encompasses any device, tool, or system that helps a person with a disability do things they would otherwise find difficult or impossible. AT ranges from simple low-tech solutions (grip aids, magnifiers, adapted utensils) to complex high-tech systems (screen readers, eye-tracking computers, powered wheelchairs).
AT can support communication (AAC devices), learning (text-to-speech, speech-to-text), mobility (wheelchairs, walkers), daily living (adapted kitchen tools, environmental controls), and employment (ergonomic setups, specialized software).
An AT assessment evaluates the individual's functional abilities, task demands, and environmental factors to recommend the most appropriate technology solutions. Training on how to use the technology effectively is a critical component.
Who Benefits from Assistive Technology?
vision loss
Screen readers (JAWS, NVDA), magnification software (ZoomText), refreshable braille displays, and other visual aids enable computer access, reading, and independence.
learning disabilities
Text-to-speech, speech-to-text, word prediction, graphic organizers, and audio books level the playing field in academic settings.
cerebral palsy
Adapted computer access (switches, eye tracking, alternative keyboards), powered mobility, and environmental controls maximize independence and communication.
spinal cord injury
Environmental control systems, adapted computer access, smart home technology, and mobility devices restore independence in daily activities.
What to Expect in a Session
First Session
An AT assessment (60-120 minutes) evaluates functional needs, tries various technology options, and recommends solutions. The assessor considers the person's abilities, goals, and the environments where they'll use the technology.
Ongoing Sessions
Training sessions teach effective use of recommended technology. Ongoing support includes troubleshooting, customization, and upgrading as needs change.
Your Child's Role
You or your child tries different technology options during assessment, then learns to use recommended devices through structured training and practice.
Caregiver's Role
Caregivers learn to support technology use, troubleshoot basic issues, and advocate for AT access in school and community settings.
When to Start
Early Childhood (0-5)
Simple AT can be introduced in infancy (adapted toys, switches for cause-and-effect). More complex AT grows with the child.
School Age (6-17)
AT becomes critical for academic access. Schools are required to provide necessary AT under special education legislation.
Adults (18+)
AT supports employment, post-secondary education, and independent living. Provincial programs fund AT for eligible adults.
General guidance: Don't wait to explore AT options. Technology can open doors to participation, communication, and independence that significantly improve quality of life at any age.
| Item | Range | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Assessment | $200–$500 | AT needs assessment and device matching |
| Per Session | $80–$150 | 45-60 minutes (training sessions) |
| Insurance | Some extended health plans cover AT devices; provincial programs (e.g., Ontario ADP) may fund equipment | |
| Tax Credit | AT devices and training are eligible for METC; many AT devices also qualify for DTC-related claims | |
Money-Saving Tips
- Provincial assistive devices programs cover a significant portion of eligible equipment costs
- Neil Squire Society and March of Dimes Canada offer AT lending libraries and assessments
- Many free or low-cost AT apps and software alternatives exist (e.g., built-in accessibility features on tablets)
| Province | Status | Program | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| BC | Partially Funded | AT BC / MSP | AT BC provides equipment lending and low-cost options; MSP covers some orthotic and prosthetic devices. |
| AB | Partially Funded | Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) | AADL covers 75% of approved medical equipment and supplies including wheelchairs, hearing aids, and prosthetics.Up to 75% of approved cost |
| SK | Partially Funded | Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living (SAIL) | SAIL provides assistive devices at no cost including wheelchairs, hearing aids, respiratory equipment, and communication devices. |
| MB | Partially Funded | Manitoba Assistive Technology Program | Provides assessment and access to assistive technology including loans, recycled equipment, and funding referrals. |
| ON | Partially Funded | Assistive Devices Program (ADP) | ADP covers 75% of approved devices including wheelchairs, communication devices, hearing aids, and visual aids.Up to 75% of approved device cost |
| QC | Partially Funded | RAMQ | RAMQ covers many assistive devices including hearing aids (up to $1,000), wheelchairs, and orthotics through its technical aids program. |
| NB | Partially Funded | Disability Support Program / Medicare | Some devices covered through Medicare and the Disability Support Program; hearing aids covered for children. |
| NS | Partially Funded | Disability Support Program / MSI | Medical Services Insurance covers some devices; Disability Support Program provides additional equipment for eligible adults. |
| PE | Partially Funded | AccessAbility Supports | AccessAbility Supports provides assistive technology and equipment for persons with disabilities on PEI. |
| NL | Partially Funded | Special Assistance Program | Special Assistance Program covers some medical equipment; additional support through provincial disability programs. |
| NT | Partially Funded | Supplementary Health Benefits | Some AT covered through Supplementary Health Benefits and Extended Health Benefits programs; NIHB for Indigenous residents. |
| NU | Limited | Supplementary Health Benefits | Limited AT availability; some devices covered through Supplementary Health Benefits; NIHB covers many devices for Inuit residents. |
| YT | Partially Funded | Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits | Some assistive devices and equipment funded through the Chronic Disease and Disability Benefits program. |
Evidence & Research
Assistive technology has moderate-to-strong evidence for improving functional outcomes across disability populations. Research supports AT for improving academic performance in learning disabilities, communication for people with complex needs, and independence for people with physical disabilities.
Red Flags to Watch For
Be cautious of any provider who:
- Technology is recommended without a proper assessment of the individual's needs, abilities, and environment
- No training is provided — just purchasing a device without learning how to use it effectively
- The AT provider only recommends expensive solutions without considering low-tech or free alternatives
- The technology is abandoned after initial setup without ongoing support and follow-up
- The assessment does not involve the person who will use the technology in decision-making
How to Find a Provider
- 1
Contact your provincial assistive devices program (e.g., Ontario Assistive Devices Program, BC AT Program) for assessment and funding
- 2
Reach out to the Neil Squire Society for AT assessment and training services across Canada
- 3
Contact CNIB for vision-related AT assessment and training
- 4
Ask your school board's assistive technology team about AT for educational purposes
- 5
Contact March of Dimes Canada for AT lending libraries and assessment services