General Information                                                             Assistive Technology Can Help YOU!  What is Assistive Technology? Assistive technology is an item, piece of equipment, or product that helps a person do an activity that they might not otherwise be able to do.  One example is using a weighted fork for a person with tremors.  When using regular silverware, the person might need to be fed, but the weighted fork reduces the tremors and he or she is able to feed him or herself.  Not only can assistive technology make completing tasks easier for the caregiver but also allows the person being cared for to do things on their own.  That feeling of independence can mean a lot to a person who needs help with so many things. Examples of assistive technology that can help with different areas of need: MOBILITY/TRANSFERRING Swivel seat cushion                                                                                  Furniture risers Ceiling mounted pole EATING Plate guard Weighted forks Forks with grips COOKING Suction cup brushes Rocking T knife BATHING/DRESSING Sock aid Shampoo trays MEDICATION MANAGEMENT Talking pill bottle/machine RECREATION Lighted magnifying glass Extra-large playing cards Pocket talker GENERAL SAFETY 3-prong plug with helper Non-skid tape WANDERING PREVENTION Door posters Door alarms Adaptive door knobs Assistive Technology Kit Available! The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) has an assistive technology kit available. The kit is filled with various types of assistive technology. It is designated to help our consumers and their caregivers see what is out there for assistive technology. Feel free to stop in to see the kit, the office is located in the lower level of the Florence County Courthouse, 501 Lake Avenue, or call 715-528-4890 to schedule an appointment for us to come out and show you some neat items to help with day-to-day activities. Options for Accessing Assistive Technology Wisconsin Assistive Technology For All Thank you for exploring the Assistive Technology available throughout Wisconsin. A site that provids awareness, access to and acquisition of assistive technology.  Some of the devices listed here by participating programs may have certain areas of the state that they work in. This may mean you will need to work with the agency that covers the county in which you live. Florence County is served by Midstate Independent Living Choices (MILC) Program. Other devices may be listed for free or sale by private individuals so be sure to click Contact Information on the device you are interested in to learn more about who has it and where it is. Call MILC at 715-344-4210 or go to wisconsinat4all.com Medicare Will cover certain types of assistive technology known as durable medical equipment. This is part of your part B coverage with Medicare. Medicare may cover equipment such as canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, commodes, hospital beds, and lifts. For more information on what Medicare may cover you can call 1-800-MEDICARE or go to www.medicare.gov. Medicaid Will also cover some types of assistive technology. A prior authorization may be required prior to coverage being approved. For questions regarding Medicaid coverage of a specific item, you can call Recipient Services at 1-800-362-3002. Supplemental Insurance May also cover some types of assistive technology. It is best to check with your specific insurance carrier on what your specific policy covers, as this varies. Family Care or IRIS For those enrolled in Family Care or enrolled in IRIS, these programs may be able to assist with the cost of assistive technology. For those enrolled in Family Care, consult with your team about the use of assistive technology and how it may benefit you. For those enrolled with IRIS, discuss with your independent consultant regarding the use of part of your budget for assistive technology. WisLoan Is a program for anyone in the State of Wisconsin with a disability who wishes to purchase assistive technology, adaptive equipment or make accessible modifications to their home. This is a low interest loan program. You can apply for WisLoan by contacting  Midstate Independent Living Choices (MILC) at 715-334-4210. TEPP (Telecommunications Equipment Purchase Program) Is a voucher program for those in need of adaptive telephone equipment? Any Wisconsin resident who is deaf, hard of hearing, deaf with low vision, deaf blind, has a speech impairment, or has a mobility impairment can apply for a specific voucher category. For an application you can stop by the ADRC office or call us at 715-528-4890. Veteran’s Administration Individuals who are eligible for veterans’ benefits should look into whether they can receive assistance from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Contact Ken Taylor - Veterans Service Officer Phone: 715-528-3446 or email fcvso@florencecountywi.gov   Contact:  Phone: 715-528-4890 Toll Free: 1-800-528-ADRC (2372) TTY: 715-528-5023 Fax: 715-528-4241 Click here to email Hours:  Monday through Friday 8:30 am - 4:00 pm. Home visits and after hours appointments available by request. If you need special accommodations, please ask.