Assistive Technology & Universal Design

Principal Investigator: Kurt L. Johnson, PhD

Through an endowment from the MS Foundation, the MSRRTC has provided assistive technologies (AT) to many different individuals with MS. AT can enhance mobility and environmental control for people living with MS, and can play a key role in workplace accommodations.

The case studies listed at the link below illustrate how Assistive Technologies can be useful for people with MS, caregivers, and health care providers in addressing difficulties with:

• fine motor coordination
• reading
• writing
• mobility
• bladder management
• vision
• memory
• cognitive organization
• personal safety
• communication

The information may also be employed in the development of products that increase accessibility for individuals with disabilities, including those using AT.

• Assistive Technology & Workplace Accommodation Case Studies

Published Abstracts

In addition to training and assistance above, we have also published research results about the use of assistive technology by individuals with MS.

1. Johnson, K; Bamer, A. M.; Yorkston, K. M.; Amtmann, D (In Press) Use of cognitive aids and other assistive technology by individuals with MS. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology.
2. Johnson, Kurt; DiGiacomo, Alyssa; Yorkston, Kathryn M; Amtmann, Dagmar (2006) Use and Availability of Assistive Technology in MS. International Journal of MS Care. 8 (2), 41-42.
• View the Abstract (Pages 41-42).
3. Bamer, A; Johnson, K; Yorkston, K; Amtmann, D (2007) Predictors of Assistive Technology Use for Cognitive Aids in MS. International Journal of MS Care. 9 (2), 50.
• View the Abstract (Page 50).
4. Kraft, G; Johnson, K (2008) Making Technology Work for MS Patients. MS Exchange. 12 (4), 10-11.