New technology gives older adults, disability community sense of independence

GEORGETOWN, Del.- Tuesday,  The Delaware Assistive Technology Initiative revealed new equipment to assist older adults and those with disabilities.

They hosted a presentation on several gadgets Monday with the help of the Sussex County Advisory Committee on Aging & Adults with Physical Disabilities. Those who attend one of DATI’s presentations get the opportunity to take the equipment home for a trial period. Once that period has ended, interested parties can discuss payment options for items they’d like to purchase.

One of the ones on display was a feeding robot. It’s a device that supports those who have limited use of their hands with eating.

We’re told the goal is to help those individuals keep their independence and safety in their homes.

“A lot of the older adults that we come into contact with have age-related vision or hearing challenges. We’re helping them be able to read prescription bottles, recipes, and books and see pictures more effectively. It helps keep them more independent in their own homes,” DATI’s Karen Latimer said.

Latimer says most of the equipment isn’t covered by insurance, but most are covered by other programs and financing options.

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