Sample Materials
Developing a Funding Strategy
Step 1: Why is assistive technology needed?

You should first identify the areas in your life where you feel assistive technology (AT) could help you. You may already have some ideas about how AT could provide you with more access and inclusion in your community. You must be prepared, however, to describe your needs clearly and to state exactly how AT could assist you at home, school, work and/or in your daily life in your community. Keep in mind that there is a big difference in knowing that you need assistive technology and proving that need to someone else.

Here are some guiding questions to assist you in your quest to acquire assistive technology:

1. WHO? – Who will be using the AT?
2. WHY? – Why is the AT needed?
3. WHAT? – What types of AT are/were recommended?
4. WHERE? – Where will the AT be primarily utilized? (Home, work, school,
recreation and/or all places)
5. WHEN? – When will the AT device be utilized?
6. HOW? – How can the AT device increase independence?

Most importantly, will the device or service enable you to enter or continue employment, live more independently, enter or continue schooling, or create or restore function on one or more life areas such as walking, seeing, hearing and/or communicating? Depending on the funding source, you may have to prove one or more of these benefits.

These questions may be difficult to answer on your own. It’s a good idea to involve professionals when determining the answers to these important questions. Here is a list of some professionals that may be able to assist in determining your needs:

• Teacher
• Early Intervention Specialist
• Speech Therapist
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Vocational Counselor
• Independent Living Coordinator
• Assistive Technology Professional
• Rehabilitation Engineer
• Doctor
• School Counselor
• Advocate

If you are seeking funding from health insurance providers, you will also want to describe the health-related and preventative benefits of the AT device. For example, does this device help to prevent falls and/or additional loss of a primary function?

Go to Step 2: What assistive device, equipment, or service is needed?

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