IDD · Aging in Place · Autism · Caregivers · Older Adults
Life | Home | Tech (LHT) moves beyond traditional service models to take a holistic view of each person’s goals, needs and desires. Using a person-centered approach, LHT enhances independence, safety, and quality of life using enabling technology. This creates meaningful outcomes, providing a sense of dignity and autonomy for older adults, adults with IDD, adults with autism, families and caregivers.
Throughout the course of a day and into the night, everyone’s challenges are different. LHT helps to identify needs and find solutions. Those solutions range from full home systems to simple hand-held devices, all designed to enhance daily life. Examples include:
- Kitchen tools for safer, more accessible cooking
- Task-prompting aids for memory support
- Smart home devices that enhance safety and accessibility
- Devices that promote a happier, more fulfilling life
Many of these solutions are featured in our Demonstration Home – a unique space where individuals, families and caregivers can explore what is possible. Guided tours of the Demo Home spark conversations and inspire personalized plans of action.
In JSDD homes and the WAE Center, individual needs are assessed to integrate technology that improves daily experiences. With innovative tech, we help achieve greater independence and success.
Beyond direct service, we offer a wide range of educational and support opportunities for the older adult and IDD communities, including:
- Demo Home Tours
- Caregiver Support
- Consultations for Individuals and Organizations
- Staff Training
- Information Sessions
- Classes and Workshops
- And More
Background
In 2023, JSDD was awarded a federal grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living, to pilot JSDD: Life | Home | Tech (LHT). This innovative, grant-funded initiative began by using technology solutions to support adults with IDD and autism in achieving goals and optimizing daily routines.
With additional grant funding from the Healthcare Foundation of New Jersey and the Grotta Fund for Older Adults, LHT expanded its reach – serving a broader IDD community and older adults, including those who wish to age in place.
The Inclusive Healthy Communities (IHC) grant has helped us further our commitment to expand access to JSDD’s residents and members, while also challenging perceptions and advocating for systemic change in the broader community.
With this support, Life | Home | Tech collaborates with community partners to raise awareness and educate the public about how technology is unlocking new possibilities for self-sufficiency and joyful, independent living.
What is Enabling Technology?
Enabling Technology refers to tools and supports which empower individuals to lead more independent, connected, and fulfilling lives. For older adults and adults with IDD, it helps bridge the gap between support needs and personal goals.
This tech can range from smart home systems and sensors to simple devices that don’t require Wi-Fi. Examples include:
- Reminders for daily routines
- Medication management tools
- Kitchen safety devices
- Smart home systems
- Communication tools that support social connection
At its heart, enabling technology isn’t about replacing human support—it’s about offering individuals more choice and control in how they live, work, and participate in their communities.
Testimonials
Funders
Life | Home | Tech is generously supported by grants from:
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Previous Webinars
Barbra Seltzer is a Speech/Language Pathologist with more than 30 years of experience working with children and adults with complex communication needs.
Join us! This webinar will provide an overview of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and how to access services through your DDD budget.
Barbra Seltzer has worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practice, special needs schools, early intervention, adult day programs, and home-based therapy.
Currently, Barbra works in private practice providing AAC Evaluations and Therapy to children and adults in Northern New Jersey. Barbra has a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech/Language and Hearing Association, a New Jersey license to practice Speech/Language Pathology and Certification by the New Jersey Department of Education as a Speech/Language Specialist. She serves as Chair of the AAC Committee and is a member of the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Speech/Language and Hearing Association. Barbra is also a member of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America and is certified as an Assistive Technology Professional. Barbra believes that all people have a right to be heard, understood, and respected.
Topics will include:
– What is AAC?
– Who is a candidate for AAC?
– Common myths about AAC.
– What does an AAC Evaluation consist of and who can conduct one?
– What follow up is necessary after receiving an AAC System?
– Funding AAC services and equipment.
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Join our educational webinar, “Building Independence through Task Prompting and Social Supports (iPad and Apps),” where we’ll explore the power of iPads and various apps in fostering independence. Discover how to create effective Task Analyses, Checklists, Schedules, and Social Stories using technology. We’ll shine a spotlight on innovative tools like QR codes and the Choice Works app to enhance skill development.
Throughout the presentation, we’ll emphasize the significance of a person-centered approach to technology, ensuring a tailored and empowering learning experience.
Don’t miss this opportunity to unlock new possibilities for independence using iPads and apps. Register now to be part of this transformative discussion.
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Join us for our exciting webinar, “Building Independence with Routines and Drop-in Supports (Amazon Echo Show),” where we’ll delve into the capabilities of the Amazon Echo. Discover the versatility of the Echo Show device, focusing on its communication features, including Drop-ins and Video Calling, exploring the difference between calling out from the device and calling the device.
Learn how to harness the power of Alexa routines to gain essential skills and receive support with your daily living routines, including using Alexa for environmental controls. We’ll also cover the importance of privacy.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more about this enabling technology and how it can enhance daily independent living routines. Register now to embark on this educational journey with us.
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Join our informative webinar, “Building Independence and Safety at Home with the Ring Video Doorbell.” In this session, we’ll introduce you to the Ring Video Doorbell, providing a comprehensive overview of its functionality and ease of use. Learn how the Ring app can be used on a smartphone or tablet to enable the self-advocate and their family to receive notifications from the Ring Video Doorbell. Learn about customizable features to suit individual needs and create teachable opportunities surrounding addressing visitors to the home. We’ll provide you with an overview of the setup process, including device installation and the use of Ring accessories for enhanced support.
Additionally, we’ll showcase the valuable benefit of integrating an Echo Show smart speaker for hands-free communication and safer interactions with visitors.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how the Ring Video Doorbell can empower you to create a safer and more independent living environment. Register now to gain valuable insights and take the first step towards enhanced home security and independence.
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Enabling technology expert, Meghan O’ Sullivan will review the basics of this growing resource, show real-life examples of how it’s used, and explore the ethics of using technology. This workshop will guide participants in crafting a plan for a smooth transition to greater independence using technology; giving individuals, caregivers and support networks the knowledge they need to grow independence through the use of enabling technology.
This initial workshop will provide an overview of the four devices that JSDD is exploring in the series (Medready, Ring Doorbell, Amazon Echo, iPad), while delving deeper into medication assistance. Meghan will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of available options from simple alarms to devices like the Medready.
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