Something New at Disability Network Lakeshore

Sometimes it can be difficult to find the right assistive technology (A.T.) items to meet your needs. You see something that might work out and buy it only to find that it’s not the right fit, it doesn’t do the job like you thought it would, or it’s just not something that’s going to work for you for whatever reason. So, there you sit having spent your money on something that’s no help at all. You either have to go through the hassle of returning it or keep it and add it to your junk drawer.

Sound familiar? It happens to all of us.

That is why trying before you buy can make such a big difference. A device may look simple in a store or online, but real life is not always that simple. A button may be too small. A handle may be hard to hold. The sound may not be loud enough. Or the item may work in one setting but not in another. When you can test out assistive technology first, you have a better chance of finding something that truly helps.

Now there may be a better choice. Disability Network Lakeshore has just opened their new Assistive Technology Mini-Lab. It features different assistive technology devices designed to make your life easier when living with a disability.

We have a section for devices to improve hearing, a small selection of items to improve vision, equipment for helping with personal care or for getting chores done in the kitchen. There are many items that are designed to help you in an emergency situation and much more.

The Mini-Lab is a place to explore options in a low-pressure way. You do not have to guess based on a photo or a product description. You can look closely at the items, ask questions, and see how they feel in your hands or how they might fit into your daily routine. That can save time, money, and frustration.

For example, a person who has trouble hearing may want to compare different alerting devices. Someone who has low vision may want to see the size, shape, and contrast of a tool before choosing it. A person who needs help in the kitchen may want to check whether a device is easy to grip, easy to clean, and easy to use on a daily basis. Small details like these often matter more than a label or a price tag.

If you are not sure where to start, think about one task that feels harder than it should. Is it hearing a timer, keeping track of a phone call, opening a container, washing dishes, or getting ready in the morning? Once you name the task, it is easier to look for the right kind of help. That is often the first step in finding a device that fits your needs.

If you’d like to tour the Mini-Lab, please call DNL to make an appointment. Don’t forget we have a Loan Closet of items you can borrow too! We don’t ask for them back unless you no longer need them.

That Loan Closet can be very helpful when you want to try something for a little while before making a bigger choice. Borrowing an item gives you a chance to see how it works in your own home and in your own routine. Something may seem perfect in the office, but the real test is how it works during a busy morning, at the dinner table, or when you are tired at the end of the day.

This is a great opportunity to see what kind of A.T. is available and try it out to see if it works for you before spending your money on it. Call DNL at 616-396-5326 to schedule an appointment today. There is no charge for this service.

Free access matters. Many people hesitate to look for assistive technology because they worry about cost. They may also worry about making the wrong choice. A visit to DNL can help with both. When you can learn about options at no charge, it is easier to make a decision with confidence. If you are in Ottawa or Allegan counties and need support, DNL is here to help. You can reach us at 616-396-5326.

Our World still has barriers for people with disabilities.

Whether you're an individual or a company, searching for disability resources is discouraging and frustrating. And when you don't have the right tools, individuals and communities suffer. Wouldn't you like to live in an inclusive community where everyone can participate, contribute, and belong?

Barriers can be physical, but they can also be small and everyday. A website may not work well with a screen reader. A kitchen tool may be too hard to use. A workplace may not have what someone needs to do the job well. These barriers can add stress and keep people from taking part in regular life. The right resources can make a real difference.

The right resources are hard to find. We get it.

We understand how it feels to struggle to fully participate in an inaccessible community, which is why we help people find and use disability resources.

That support may be as simple as listening first and helping someone sort through the choices. It may also mean pointing someone toward a tool, a service, or a next step that makes daily life easier. Sometimes people just need someone to talk through the options with them. Other times they already have an idea and need help finding what matches that need.

If you are helping a family member, friend, client, or neighbor, you can also make the process easier by keeping a few simple questions in mind:

What task needs to be easier?
Where will the item be used most often?
Will the person need to carry it, store it, or clean it?
Does the person need something simple, or something with more features?
Would a short trial help before buying?

These questions can help narrow the search. They can also keep you from buying something that looks useful but does not really fit the person’s needs.

When you are ready to learn more, DNL can help guide you through the options. Services are free, and the goal is to make life a little easier and a little less complicated.

Donate Today To Make a Difference!

Helping others live lives less complicated by disabilities takes people and resources. Support like yours helps us continue helping others struggling to navigate disability resources. 90% of your donation goes directly into services to individuals, their families, and our community.

Make A Donation Today!

442 Century Lane
Holland, MI 49423

Services

Advocacy
- Assistance Animals
Information & Referral
Peer Support
- Emergency Readiness
- Social Security Disability
- Social Participation
- Veterans
Skills Development
- Employment
Transition
- Nursing Home Transition
- Youth Services

Events

About

Contact Us

The Ability Award

Blog

DNL Live

Impact Report

Satisfaction Survey

Volunteer

Info@dnlakeshore.org
Phone: (616) 396-5326
Fax: (616) 396-3220

Office Hours:
8am–4:30pm M-F

442 Century Lane
Holland, MI 49423

Services

Advocacy

Assistance Animals

Information & Referral

Peer Support

Emergency Readiness

Social Security Disability

Social Participation

Veterans

Skills Development

Employment

Transition

Nursing Home Transition

Youth Services