What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology devices allow persons with disabilities to live, work, and play more independently and effectively. TRIPIL is an Assistive Technology Resource Center under Pennsylvanias Initiative on Assistive Technology - a statewide program whose goal is to increase the availability and utilization of assistive technology devices and services for all Pennsylvanians with disabilities. Most services are provided at no cost to people with disabilities, their family members and advocates.

TRIPIL's ATRC serves Bedford, Blair, Cambria, Fayette, Greene, Somerset and Washington counties.

If you need assistance in another county, please visit the listing of all ATRCs

What does an "Assistive Technology Resource Center" do?

Public Awareness

TRIPIL can provide information and assistance relating to Assistive Technology. We can help you find service providers, select devices that may help, and acquire Assistive Technology of your own. If you'd like a sample of what is out there, check out the National Public Website on Assistive Technology

TRIPIL also conducts public awareness events to introduce the scope and potential for AT devices and services. TRIPIL can come to your agency or organization to explain more about Assistive Technology programs and resources, and can participate in conferences and expos to increase awareness of Assistive Technology.

Device Demonstrations

Device demonstrations are hands-on opportunities for people with disabilities and family members to explore Assistive Technology devices. Device demonstrations can help you decide if certain devices (or types of devices) are right for you.

Assistive Technology Lending Library

Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library is a free, statewide program that provides loans of Assistive Technology. The Lending Library allows you try a device for a limited time ( typically 2-8 weeks) to find out if it can help you before you buy it! If needed, you can try many devices to find which Assistive Technology devices meet your needs. You can also use the Lending Library to get a "loaner" device while your own is being repaired.
    
The Lending Library is also a resource for providers who want to borrow devices for evaluations, or who simply become more informed about the devices that are available.

TRIPIL can help you utilize this valuable resource - please contact us for more information. The fully-searchable Lending Library

Training and Technical Assistance

TRIPIL offers training to service providers in order to increase their knowledge of Assistive Technology in order to better assist people with disabilities. TRIPIL also provides technical assistance to public and private agencies to develop and improve policies related to access to AT devices and services, including AT involved in the transition from school to work or from nursing home to community.

What resources are available?

Funding Assistance