Supportive Technology-Based Services

Assistive Technology and Remote Support: What's the Difference?

Assistive Technology and Remote Support are two ways to use technology to increase a person's abilities and independence.

  • Assistive Technology is technology used directly by a person receiving services. It includes smart or electronic devices that allows them to increase or maintain their independence and reduce their reliance on others. You can find more information about this approach on the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities' Assistive Technology webpage.

  • Remote Support technology is used by offsite staff to monitor and provide live support to a person with a disability. It combines technology and direct care, and uses two-way communication to respond to the needs of individuals living in the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It may include home-based sensors, cameras and other devices. You can find more information about this approach on the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities' Remote Support webpage.

The Technology First section of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities' website offers more information about how technology can be used to help people with developmental disabilities. 

Technology Solutions:  Facts

The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities has also created a one-page Fact Sheet about technology solutions.

How Remote Supports Work:  Video Examples

  • LEARN more about this new approach to support in this brief animated animated video.
  • DISCOVER how a group of local women are using remote supports.
  • SEE how a young man is using remote supports and assistive technologies to help him live more independently in this video interview..

The Ohio Tech Ambassador Network educates Ohioans about assistive and supportive technologies by engaging people with disabilities who are using these supports in their own lives as peer educators. Check out their information at the Ohio Tech Ambassadors website.

Questions?

Do you have questions about Remote Monitoring and Support? Contact Mitch Snyder at 937-559-0899.