Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Assistive Technology topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
NEAT Center director: small assistive technologies can help people with disabilities keep jobs
Summary
Kristen Gilfeather, director of assistive technology services at the NEAT Center, described how NEAT works with BRS and VRS to evaluate, recommend and train clients on assistive technology in the actual work or home setting to support employment and prevent job loss.
Kristen Gilfeather, director of assistive technology services at the NEAT Center, told attendees that the center evaluates and trials assistive technologies and returns recommendations to BRS and the client so devices can be adopted and the individual trained in their actual environment.
Gilfeather said the NEAT Center receives referrals from BRS and that services typically begin with VRS and the client’s VR counselor communicating directly with NEAT to document the need. "VRS is an incredibly strong partnership with us," she said, adding that the center steps in when employees are at risk of losing their jobs.
The detailed, in-place approach creates a written report listing what technology was trialed and what is recommended; according to Gilfeather, those recommendations go back to BRS for discussion with the client, and BRS later brings cases back to NEAT for hands-on training in the setting where the device will be used.
Gilfeather emphasized that fixes are often simple and low-cost. "Maybe their desk needs to be moved closer to the printer," she said. "Maybe they need a better keyboard. Maybe they need an Apple Watch to give them reminders to do certain things at certain times to break up their day." She said such interventions can address productivity problems that threaten employment.
Gilfeather also noted that assistive technology can help people who are searching for work by increasing confidence using technology. "Finding employment is really difficult at times for individuals with disabilities," she said. "With technology and being comfortable with technology, BRS and NEAT can work together and give the confidence that's needed to apply for a job."
The transcript uses the acronyms BRS and VRS without spelling them out; the presentation did not provide full agency names or funding details. The NEAT Center's process, as described, centers on assessment, trialing, a recommendation report, and on-site training once the client and BRS agree to the technology.
The presentation concluded with a reminder that assistive technology "can be really small and simple, and it can be a really quick fix," and an appeal not to be intimidated by the tools that help people perform everyday work tasks.
