Safe AT Home: Join Us March 3rd, 2026 for Our First 2026 Event on Assistive Technologies for Seniors and People with Disabilities

Independence is a fundamental desire for everyone, especially for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Advances in assistive technologies are opening new doors, helping people live more comfortably and confidently on their own. Our first event in the 2026 series will focus on these exciting opportunities. We invite you to join us to explore how technology can support independent living and improve quality of life. A special thank you to our co-sponsors Arc Human Services and Inglis. This first event is hosted by Arc of Washington County PA and a follow-up event to advance key topics will be scheduled in June at Inglis' Pittsburgh location in Bellvue.

Discover more details and register for the event here: Event Page.

Why Assistive Technologies Matter

As people age or face physical challenges, everyday tasks can become difficult. Assistive technologies provide practical solutions that help overcome these barriers. Devices and software designed for accessibility can:

• Enhance mobility and safety

• Improve communication

• Support daily routines

• Increase social connection

  
  

For example, smart home systems allow users to control lighting, temperature, and security with voice commands or simple apps. Mobility aids like powered wheelchairs and stairlifts help maintain physical freedom. Communication tools such as speech-to-text apps enable easier interaction for those with speech or hearing impairments.

These technologies do more than assist with tasks. They restore confidence and reduce dependence on caregivers, which benefits both users and their families.

What to Expect at the Event

Our 2026 kickoff event will provide insights into how leaders like Arc, Inglis, and CLASS are using assistive technologies to support safe and independent living and foster dialogue among attendees via four breakouts covering:

• Advocacy, Policy, and System: What policy, regulatory, and leadership strategies would establish a culture of AT innovation as a standard practice and expand access across the system?
  

• Training, Skills, and Support: What training, support, and capacity are needed so that staff, families, and people with disabilities can successfully adopt and sustain assistive technology solutions?
  

• Funding & Affordability: How do people and organizations pay for the technology, connectivity, and support they need when personal income and standard funding streams are not enough?
  

• Insurance, Payers, and System: What opportunities exist to align insurance, waiver, and regulatory frameworks with AT solutions that support independence and quality of life?

  
  

Who should attend:

• ​Service providers and disability organizations

• ​Assistive technology innovators and entrepreneurs

• Advocates, funders, and leaders focused on seniors and/or individuals with disabilities

​Space is limited! If the event is full, sign up for our waitlist to be notified of any cancellations and be first on our notification list for the follow-up event in June.

Real-Life Success Stories

Hearing how assistive technologies have changed lives can inspire and inform. Here are two examples:

• Margaret, 78, uses a smart medication dispenser

Margaret struggled to keep track of her multiple medications. With a smart dispenser that alerts her when it’s time to take each dose, she now manages her health independently and avoids missed or incorrect doses.

• James, 45, regained communication with a speech-generating device

After a stroke affected his speech, James found it difficult to express himself. A speech-generating device allowed him to communicate clearly with family and friends, improving his social life and emotional well-being.

These stories highlight how technology can address specific challenges and create meaningful improvements.

Join Us and Take the Next Step Toward Independence

This event marks the start of an important conversation about how technology can support seniors and people with disabilities in living independently. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and explore tools that can make daily life easier and more fulfilling.