As we kick off 2026, the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) conference, happening from January 29th to January 31st, is set to showcase the latest tech that boosts independence. This year’s event is heavily focused on how AI and emerging tech bridge the gap between gadgets and true independence, with free sessions open to the…
This blog is the second in a three-part series based on the recent webinar presentation “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.” The segment, titled “Differences Between IDEA/504 (K–12) and ADA Protections,” was presented by Jan Garrett, Deputy Director of ADA Programs at the Pacific ADA Center. The series explores how key disability…
This blog is the first in a three-part series based on the recent webinar presentation “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.” The segment, titled “Differences Between IDEA/504 (K–12) and ADA Protections,” was presented by Jan Garrett, Deputy Director of ADA Programs at the Pacific ADA Center. The series explores how key disability…
This blog is based on a segment from the recent webinar presentation “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead.” The segment, titled “Self-Advocacy & The Art of the Persistent Complaint,” was presented by YO! Disabled & Proud staffer Jem Moore explored how self-advocacy, collective advocacy, and systemic change intersect and how AT can…
Welcome to the final post in “Adulting with AT,” our blog series following the Your Future, Your Tools webinar! So far, we’ve covered how AT supports learning and independent living. Now, we’re heading into the workplace, because adulting includes jobs, internships, and launching your career. Whether you’re applying for your first job, starting a new…
Welcome back to “Adulting with AT,” our follow-up blog series based on the Your Future, Your Tools webinar! In this post, we’re taking on one of the biggest parts of growing up: living more independently. Whether that means moving into your own place, managing your daily routine, or handling things like cooking, cleaning, or organizing,…
Welcome to “Adulting with AT,” a blog series inspired by our recent webinar, “Your Future, Your Tools: AT for the Road Ahead,” now available on the Ability Tools YouTube channel. Whether you’re finishing high school, heading to college, or continuing your education in other ways, learning doesn’t stop and neither does your need for the…
In this quick guide, we’ll show you how to change your smart light’s color using the Alexa app to set the mood or improve visibility for specific tasks. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for…
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up and pair the ThirdReality Door Sensor using an Amazon Echo device and the Alexa app. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra visual…
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to install, pair, and name the ThirdReality Smart Switch Gen3 using an Amazon Echo device and the Alexa app. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra…
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up and pair the Aeotec Motion Sensor using an Amazon Echo device with a built-in Zigbee hub. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra…
In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up and pair the ThirdReality Smart Plug using an Amazon Echo device with a built-in Zigbee hub. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra…
Access full video instructions via the Ability Tools YouTube channel “Setting Up Alexa Emergency Assist” Overview of Alexa Emergency Assist Alexa Emergency Assist is a monthly subscription service that allows you to call for help using just your voice, no phone dialing or button pressing required. Simply say: “Alexa, call for help” You’ll be connected…
Section 1: Unboxing & Setting Up Amazon Echo Access full video instructions via the Ability Tools YouTube channel. “Setting Up Amazon Echo” Overview of the Amazon Echo (4th Gen): The Amazon Echo is a smart home device that works like a helpful assistant. It responds to your voice and can assist with tasks like making…
There’s more to workplace success than just having the right tech. With the right funding, training, and self-advocacy tools, powerful support is within reach; you just need to know where to find it. Assistive technology (AT) can open doors, but real success comes with the right support. Across California, programs exist to fund, train, and…
