In 2021, this Pennsylvanian family took a leap of faith and finally made a big decision regarding their daughter. Demi is 28 years old with Down syndrome and currently residing with her parents in their family home. However, she is living quite the independent life. During the winter months, Demi’s mother and
ODP's Technology Task Force surveyed qualified providers serving individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism about current experiences with Remote Supports, Assistive Technology, Teleservices, and Video Monitoring. The survey results can be found below. A printable document with the survey results can be found here. Number of Provider Respondents:94Survey Date Issued:April 17, 2023Survey
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched a new landing page at GetInternet.gov for its Affordable Connectivity Program. AffordableConnectivity.gov will still exist as a resource for consumers and digital navigators with more detailed information about the program. The FCC is continuing its efforts to promote the program by providing grants to community
Effective January 1, 2023 The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved the Consolidated, P/FDS and Community Living waivers renewals with some noted significant changes. This information was communicated by the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) per ODP Announcement 23-002. The waivers were approved for the next five years. The current
We are conducting a research study to learn more about ways that caregivers can support the use of Alternative or Augmentative Communication (AAC) in adults with intellectual disabilities and developmental disabilities. The study will examine the use of a mobile application, or “app”, on a phone or tablet. The app is designed
Dr. Mark Friedman is no stranger to advocating for and creating systemic change. He’s now taking that experience to help promote the use of assistive technology across the state. In his long career, Mark has been the state advisor to Speaking for Ourselves, Vice Chairperson of the Pennsylvania DD Council, and been
Have you visited the Supportive Technology resource center on MyODP? The new Supportive Technology page on MyODP is home to information from ODP's Technology Taskforce including newsletters, guidance, and presentations on supportive technology - Including remote supports, assistive technology, and more. ODP's Technology Taskforce recently held a series of virtual "roadshow" presentations
The Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation (PATF) has issued new editions of its Cents and Sensibility and the accompanying educators manual. The 7th edition of Cents and Sensibility: A Guide to Money Management addresses the financial education needs of people with disabilities, while providing strategies, activities, and resources for anyone who wants to
As we celebrate Assistive Technology (AT) Awareness Month, the Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation is sharing the message that AT can help people with disabilities live with more independence, safety, productivity, and with an improved quality of life. The PA Assistive Technology Foundation is committed to helping people with disabilities and older Pennsylvanians with information
Did you know that every state has a program to help people with disabilities to explore, find, and get the tools and technology they need? In Pennsylvania that program is TechOWL, part of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University. TechOWL has 9 regional centers across the state and helps people discover,
