In 2019, the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD) conducted an Assistive Technology Summit and issued a report. Shortly after completion, the COVID-19 pandemic initiated a shutdown that delayed efforts to address the report’s recommendations.
As part of NJCDD’s 2025 work plan, attendees of the 2019 Assistive Technology Summit, and new partners were gathered. Partners discussed advancements and challenges and made recommendations.
Series Introduction
Building on this momentum, the NJCDD is launching Technology and Independence for People with Disabilities: Benefits and Myths. This five-part series will share information, resources, and real stories from people with disabilities across New Jersey.
Videos
Technology can improve daily life for people with disabilities. Simple tools and advanced devices can help people be more independent and rely less on support staff and family members. At the same time, technology changes fast, and it can be hard to know what tools are available and which ones actually help.
This five-part series will share information, resources, and real stories from people with disabilities across New Jersey.
Partner Videos
Created by Richard West Assistive Technology Advocacy Center (ATAC)
Technology works best when people understand that it is not “one size fits all.” For technology to work well, it must match each person’s wants, needs, and abilities before it is put in place. Summit partners agreed that technology should not be used the same way by everyone. Instead, it should be uniquely chosen for each person. Let’s learn about some of the best ways to choose assistive technology.
Created by Bancroft
Myth: Technology will replace the human connection people need.
Reality: Devices like Pepper the Robot are tools that can help people with disabilities live better lives. These tools are not meant to replace people. They are meant to add support and improve what is already available. Some technology can also help keep people safe in ways staff alone cannot. Summit partners recommended sharing real stories and examples to help people learn about new tools, like the one shown in this video.
Created by Jewish Service for the Developmentally Disabled (JSDD)
Misunderstandings about technology are common. JSDD’s Life/Home/Tech project looks at how technology is really used to help people with disabilities be more independent. Some people worry that technology will replace human connection or that individuals will not be able to use the tools they are given. To address these concerns, the Summit partners recommended clearing up these misunderstandings. See what JSDD has learned about assistive technology from their Life/Home/Tech project.
Created by Bancroft
Every day, people across the country use smart home technology, including people with disabilities. This type of technology can help people live more independently. It can be used in ways that protect privacy and dignity. A key message from the Technology Summit was that smart home technology does not always mean cameras in the home. Learn about tools that are less invasive and can keep people safe while still respecting their need for privacy.
Created by the Richard West Assistive Technology Center (ATAC)
When people hear the words “assistive technology,” they may first think that means expensive and complicated—this is not always the case. Did you know that New Jersey has a program that lets people with disabilities try technology before buying it? Finding the right device is the most important part of making technology work. Another recommendation from the Technology.