Assistive Technology

Lending Library

at the Center for Linking Lives

Assistive technology is any device or service that supports individuals with disabilities, enabling them to participate more independently in life. This technology can range from simple adaptations of existing products to highly sophisticated and specialized devices. Assistive technology helps individuals with disabilities learn, live independently, feel included in their communities, and succeed at home, school, and in the workplace.

Choosing the right technology for you or a loved one can be challenging and daunting, which is why we launched the Assistive Technology Lending Library at the Center for Linking Lives. Visitors to the space can test out and borrow some of the newest smart home and disability-specific applications and devices on the market.

There are more than 30 items currently available at the library, including:

Text-to-speech software for reading accessibility
Universally designed independent accessibility and inclusion items
Communication devices
iPads pre-loaded with apps specifically designed to help individuals with disabilities
Kitchen products
Smart home speakers and assistants

The library will be open Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can drop in and browse our selection at any time during those hours. You can also contact our staff in order to schedule a time to visit the library so you can select and check out materials.

Northeast Arc’s Assistive Technology Coordinator Jeff Boucher provides an overview of the library and its products, in this YouTube series.

See a selection of items available at the Assistive Technology Lending Library.

Writing assist device on shelf with green background

Steady Write

A solution for those individuals with hand tremors or shaky penmanship. The steady writes base also helps reduce the effects of arthritis or other health issues that may affect anyone’s ability to grasp a pen.

An Amazon Echo with two blue Kindles on either side

Amazon Echo Show+ Kindle

The Amazon Echo Show offers a voice control feature for connected devices, such as lights, thermostats, blinds, etc. The Amazon kindle can assist people with disabilities with reading by increasing text size, invert text color, change spacing, etc.

Smart barrel on rug in front of white wall

Simply Human Trash Can

A voice and motion activated trash can allows for greater independence when cleaning any area of the home. Just say “open can” or wave in front of the can to open the lid and deposit trash inside.

Induction Cooktop

A concern for many people beginning to live independently is safety, especially safety in the kitchen. With an induction cooktop there are no open flames, greatly reducing the risk of burns or fires present from a gas stove. The surface of the cooktop also does not get hot, so if it is left on there is less chance of fire or an accidental burn posed by standard electric cook tops.

Flic 2

The Flic 2 is a smart button system that can control WIFI enabled devices with just a click. The Flic 2 is designed for customization, so anything you can imagine controlling with a button it can probably do.

Ageless Innovations Joy for All

The Joy for All companion pet is a lifelike companion for any age. Its lifelike motions and sounds responds to anyone nearby, giving the feeling of a real pet in situations where that isn’t possible.

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