TechOWL Program provides assistive technology to older adults
By Jay Nachman
Older adults and people living with disabilities can explore assistive technology options through a free lending library operated by TechOWL (Technology for Our Whole Lives). This is Pennsylvania’s Assistive Technology Act Program, which is part of Temple University’s Institute on Disabilities.
Visitors can borrow a device from TechOWL and test it out for five to nine weeks, depending on the item.
In addition, users can request a one-on-one demonstration of devices with an assistive technology specialist. Individuals can also invite care team members, therapists and family members to join them in learning about technology options and resources.
The goal is to help potential users make informed decisions about technology they may want to use, according to Monique Chabot, Ph.D., associate director of assistive technology at Temple’s Institute on Disabilities.
The program allows users to test devices before making a purchase. “Technology can cost a lot of money, and a device is not always returnable once you buy it,” Chabot said. Users can say, “I’m going to try out this thing. If I don’t like it, now I know I didn’t spend a thousand bucks on a device I’ll never use. I borrowed it. It didn’t work for me. I need something else. I’m not going to waste that money.”
Borrowing helps people make informed decisions about what devices might meet their needs, Chabot said.
TechOWL’s lending library has more than 500 devices that range in price from $5 to $5,000. A maximum of three items may be borrowed at one time. The items will be shipped and picked up from the borrower’s home for free. Among the technology devices that TechOWL has in its lending library are:
- Mobility devices, including folding canes, rollators and wheelchairs.
- Low vision devices.
- Hearing aids.
- Smart speakers, which are voice-controlled and can help with everyday tasks, such as controlling a thermostat.
- Smart light bulbs, which can be managed by a phone app and can control brightness levels.
At the TechOWL Community Space (1392 Cecil B. Moore Ave.), visitors can work with assistive technology experts who can provide demonstrations, explain device features and help users make decisions. The Community Space is open Monday and Wednesday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday, from 1-5 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome at any time but appointments are recommended. Contact TechOWL at 1-800-204-7428 or email TechOWL@temple.edu with questions or to make an appointment.
Chabot recalls when a neighborhood resident who is hard of hearing came into the Community Space recently. After meeting with an expert and looking at different devices, the resident selected a “pocket talker,” which uses a microphone to amplify sound for a listener while filtering out background noise. The device was sent to the woman’s house for her to test out. Staff members also showed her apps on her smartphone that might also help her hear what is going on around her better.
In addition to the lending library, TechOWL operates the following programs:
- ReUse distributes gently used donated devices for free.
- The 3D printing program has a catalog of more than 30 devices that are made in-house and sent to people for free. These 3D printed items include nail clipper holders and toothpaste squeezers.
- Pennsylvania’s Telecommunication Device Distribution Program provides free adaptive phones for people who have difficulty hearing, talking, seeing, thinking or moving.
“Don’t be afraid to give us a call,” Chabot said. “We have a very active phone, chat and email system with someone monitoring it all through the day, so you will get somebody. And we’re very, very good about returning calls. If you have a question, if you’re not sure if our services are right for you or if you’re looking for something, just give us a call. We’ll connect you with the right person in the Institute (on Disabilities). People will help you with everything.”
Chabot added that often older adults don’t consider themselves disabled. But if a person has a functional impairment or wishes there was a gadget that could help them with an activity, TechOWL can help.
“Nothing makes us happier than to sit down with you and talk about what we can do for you,” she said.
The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is one of 68 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service. These centers work toward a vision of self-determination, independence, productivity and community inclusion for people with disabilities throughout the lifespan. They are funded by the Administration for Community Living, through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For information, contact the Institute on Disabilities at 215-204-1356 or visit https://disabilities.temple.edu.
Jay Nachman is a freelance writer in Philadelphia who tells stories for a variety of clients.
