b"needsoftheindividual.F helpstodeterminestatus eMS Focus Activities Better Living Through Assistive Technology Technologyisinescapabletoday.Thedaysofbulky televisions that only get three stations, goingtothemallforallof yourholidayshopping,andphones that only make calls are long gone. But, technology today isnt limited to the newestsmartphone,digital entertainment, and internet shopping. A device that helps with foot drop is technology. A power chair that helps you get around onyour own is technology. A TENS device, a strategically placed grab bar, compression sleeves, allof these t into the category of assistive technology. They were all designed to help you have abetter quality of life. Since 1995, MS Focus has provided help with these devices, and manyothers, through our Assistive Technology ProgramAssistive technology is not a crutch (though actual crutches are definitely assistivetechnology). Some people feel that if they give in to using assistive devices, they are somehowlosing their independence. In fact, the opposite is true. For example, if you are now unable toreach something on a higher shelf because of balance issues, starting to use a grabbing devicemeans that you can now reach things without relying on the assistance of a spouse, child,family member, or neighbor. By incorporating a device into your life, you can remainindependent. That is the main goal of the Assistive Technology Program, to help people maintain theirindependence and experience a better quality of life through technology. We may do so by fundingpart or all of the cost of a device, or by providing information and referrals to individuals whocan aord the device without assistance.At MS Focus, we regularly hear stories about how devices from the program have improvedpeoples lives. The following are stories from recipients of the AT program that illustrate how theprogram, and technology, can make a big dierence in your life.Jamie of Freeport, N. Y., Most recently I received some assistance towards my handicapvehicle that I purchased in February. This vehicle changed my daily life, keeping me mobile andindependent. I'm able to take my motorized wheelchair right into the vehicle and transfer to thedriver's seat and I'm o. It has helped me immensely with fatigue because I'm not strugglingto walk from place to place. The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation has helped me throughout mymsfocusmagazine.org 20"