ATLA | Assistive Technology of Alaska

Assistive Technology of Alaska (ATLA) is Alaska’s only comprehensive assistive technology (AT) resource center. AT can be the key to greater independence and productivity for people in their home, school, community, and/or place of employment. ATLA provides demonstrations, information, and device loans to help Alaskans make informed decisions and select the AT that best meets their needs.

Mission Statement

To enhance the quality of life for Alaskans through assistive technology.

Our Snapshot

ATLA is a nonprofit organization specializing in assessments, assistive technology, and technology training services. We work with government, business, education, health services organziations, and individuals to provide accessible and cost-effective technology solutions to promote independent living and success.

Our Beliefs

Our agency believes in the right of consumers to make informed choices. We also believe that everyone should:

•     have the opportunity to achieve his or her maximum potential.
•     have the opportunity to share knowledge, express feelings, and be heard.
•     be able to actively participate in his or her own learning.
•     have access to the tools that can provide them with a way to read, write, communicate, and learn.
•     work in partnership to effectively enhance an individual’s quality of life through independence.
“Communication is the essence of human life.” - (Daniel Webster)

ATLA provides information, resources, demonstrations, loans, and the ability to purchase the following devices and/or software:

•     Aids for daily living
•     Aids for Blindness & Low Vision
•     Augmentative or Alternative Communication (AAC) devices
•     Computer access devices and software
•     Devices for Deaf & Hard of Hearing
•     Aids for Environmental Controls
•     Aids for educational needs

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Disability Blog posted a really interesting article about how reusing assistive and durable medical devices is a necessity.

Under the Assistive Technology Act, all states are now required to have some kind of assistive device reutilization effort. That is the long way of saying each state is supposed to have a program which re-uses durable medical and assistive devices.

Source: Disability Blog

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CNN posted an amazing article about a product that makes controlling a computer through eye movements a possibility.

A researcher in London has created a low-cost device which allows wearers to use their eye movements to control a computer. Take two video-game console cameras and one pair of horn-rimmed glasses and for around $30 you have a device that will allow you to control a computer or, potentially, even a wheelchair with your eyes.

Source: CNN

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