Assistive Technology
Assistive technology definitionAssistive technology is any device, system or design you can use to perform tasks that otherwise you couldn’t do. These technologies can also increase ease and safety for tasks you already manage.
Aids, equipment or devices are sometimes called assistive technology.
You can:
buy these technologies off the shelf
get things you already own modified or adapted
get something made or customised especially for your needs.
Assistive technology can be as simple as a:
jar opener
tap or key turner
book rest.
It can also be as complex as a:
powered wheelchair
hoist to lift you
modified vehicle
home automation and modifications.
Most of us use some kind of assistive technology every day.
Choose the right assistive technologyA wide range of assistive technology is available.
Your needs are specific to your requirements, activities and abilities. We consider many factors before deciding on which technology suits you best.
Evaluating your needs and circumstances can be complex and overwhelming process. You should get advice and information from health professionals about which solution is best for you.
Find out about assistive technologiesThe Independent Living Centre of South Australia (ILC SA) provides unbiased information and advice on assistive technology so you can make an informed choice.
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The ILC is not a sales outlet. Instead, we provide information and advice on assistive technology and techniques to help you with everyday tasks to maintain your independence.
Our health professional staff are:
occupational therapists
a registered nurse
speech pathologists
allied health assistants.
The service is available to everyone. Written information on assistive technologies is available, including descriptions and supplier details.
Phone or email us for individualised advice. Our inquiry line is staffed Monday to Friday, 9.00 am to 4.00 pm.
Display View equipment in the ILC display at 11 Blacks Road, Gilles Plains. We have lots of assistive technology on loan to us from suppliers.
Appointments to speak with a Health Professional are available Monday to Friday 10.00 am to 4.00 pm (excluding public holidays).
Education and trainingOur health professionals do talks and displays for community groups and exhibitions.
We deliver professional development workshops on assistive technology and related topics to health professionals, community organisations and educational facilities. Contact us for fee and topic information, or to make a booking.
Information sheetsYou can download information sheets on selecting assistive technology and techniques to assist with everyday tasks from www.sa.gov.au/disability/ilc or collect printed versions from the ILC display.
Outreach ServiceOur mobile unit outreach service operates state-wide for those of you living in rural and remote regions of South Australia. Our occupational therapist visits with a wheelchair-accessible caravan containing a large range of assistive technology and information sheets. No appointment is necessary.
Equipment catalogueThe catalogue is online at the ILC Australia website: www.ilcaustralia.org.au.
Contact usPhone 8266 5260 or 1300 885 886 (SA and NT callers only)Email [email protected]
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Continence Resource Centre (CRC)CRC is a state-wide continence information and advisory service at the Independent Living Centre. Get information and advice on bladder and bowel problems from our registered nurse/continence nurse advisor.
Speech pathologyA speech pathologist is available by appointment. You can get information and advice on assistive technology if you have communication and/or mealtime needs
Contacting the Independent Living Centre11 Blacks RoadGilles Plains SA 5086
Phone: 1300 885 886 (SA & NT callers only) or 8266 5260
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sa.gov.au/disability/ilc
Accessible off street parking is available.
Bus services run nearby. Call 8210 1000 for timetable information.
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Copies of this publication are available from the Disability Information ServiceTel: 1300 786 117 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sa.gov.au/disability Version: May 2017
Licensed under Creative Commons http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/3.0 Attribute to: The Dept for Communities and Social Inclusion, Government of South Australia
