Josh Kowalkowski, The Examiner
2008-08-03 07:00:00.0
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Columbia, Md -

By Josh Kowalkowski

Examiner Staff Writer

Sitting on tables were a number of 8-by-11-inch calculators with oversized buttons, and keyboards with pictures or colors that represent words or phrases instead of letters.

These examples of assistive technology allow people with disabilities and injuries to lead productive and independent lives and can be found at the new Assistive Technology Learning Center in Columbia in Howard.

AT: LAST Inc., the Maryland Assistive Technology Cooperative in Columbia, held a grand opening for the center this week, showcasing devices including adapted telephones, dressing and grooming aids, and altered recreational games like pinball machines.

“Most people are not even aware that some of these items exist,” said Susan Garber, the organization’s executive director, who 10 years ago founded the nonprofit purchasing cooperative that allows schools, agencies, organizations and families to buy assistive technology at a reduced price.

More than 18,000 products from more than 90 companies are discounted, Garber said.

In 2007 and 2008, the organization processed nearly $2 million worth of orders.

“It’s amazing what technology can do for you through all these different gadgets,” said Amanda Cheong, purchasing director with AT: LAST, who aids those looking for discounts for the products by working with the vendors.

Cheong’s 19-year-old daughter has an undiagnosed disability and uses specially designed switches to access a computer.

Amy Cervelloni, of Ellicott City, said her son Nathan Cervelloni, 15, has been using an augmentative communication device, a machine with picture icons and letters that helps him form sentences.

“His creative level is so high,” she said.

Many of the computer devices are sleek and mimic everyday technology.

A text-to-speech device allows a user to type on a keypad and have a machine voice speak back what was typed.

“These are mainly useful to someone with an acquired disability, like a stroke, who may have speech problems but do have a familiarity with a regular keyboard,” said Peggy Murphy, a speech pathologist with the Maryland Technology Assistance Program.

Each month, the center, 7050 Oakland Mills Road, Suite 160, will focus on a different set of assistive technology.

jkowalkowski@baltimoreexaminer.com