RIL Services & Advocacy Assistive Technology


Assistive Technology (or also known as "AT"), is any tool, equipment, or device that is used in your daily life to help you to live more independently.

Different AT devices can help you to live independently either on your own or with others. Some AT can help you to be mobile as you get around town. Other AT can improve the way you communicate with others.

Photo of woman operating a braille typing device.

Different Types of AT

Assistive Technology can be anything as ordinary as a straw or a wheelchair, to an iPad and hearing aids, and can get as complex as voice and speech activated devices such as Dragon. Other common AT devices include:

  • Wheelchair
  • Scooters
  • Walkers
  • Crutches
  • Canes
  • Prosthetic Devices
  • Orthotics
  • Braces
  • Cell Phones
  • Tablets
  • Glasses
  • Contact Lenses
  • Screen Readers
  • AAC Devices
  • Braille Devices
  • Hearing Aids
  • Grab Bars
  • Stair Lift
  • Grippers
  • Reaching Stick
  • And much more!
Photo of woman demonstrating a high-tech wheelchair.

AT Services at RIL

Our Assistive Technology Coordinator meets one on one with consumers to identify assistive technology needs and resources. They can also connect consumers with our Device Lending Library and Voice Options programs. Our AT Coordinator can be reached at angeliquec@ril-sacramento.org or call 916-446-3074 x223.

You can learn more about the Device Lending Library, Voice Options, and more here:

Logo of Ability Tools – Assistive Technology Network.
Device Lending Library https://exchange.abilitytools.org/

A way for local Californians to receive a short-term loan of various devices to test out and find the best item for you. Available through the AT Reuse Program.

Logo of Voice Options: California Speech Technology Program – A Program of the California Public Utilities Commission.
Voice Options https://dor.ca.gov/Home/VoiceOptions

Connects Californians with speech language disabilities to iPads with different speech apps to help with communication.

Do You Qualify? You Must…

  • Have difficulty speaking or not able to speak
  • People have a hard time understanding you
Logo of Digital Access Project.
Digital Access Project https://digitalaccessproject.org/

Low cost internet for those who qualify. This service may be available through your local internet service provider.

Logo of FreedonTech.
FreedomTech Technology Loan Program https://freedomtech.org

A way for local Californians to pay for Assistive Technology, including:

  • Home modification equipment for accessibility if you own your own home (e.g., ramps, shower, grab bars)
  • Hearing aids
  • Computers and adaptive accessories/software
  • Adaptive driving equipment
Logo of Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services.
Computer & Internet Trainings http://rebuildingtogethersacramento.org/

Adults who are new to technology or just looking for a refresher are invited to attend free classes such as Welcome to the World of Computers and Beyond Basics and Intro to Internet. Talented volunteers in our community lead classes in an effort to build students confidence and familiarity with technology. Classes are offered in English and Spanish and range from typing basics to Microsoft Excel.

To register for the next course, contact Shay Smith at 916-456-1980 x7634.