Initiative Description
MoAT collaborated with the Missouri Head Injury Association, the Adult Brain Injury Program within the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Institute for Human Development at the University of Missouri Kansas City on developing an AT Toolkit designed to introduce assistive technology devices for specific common conditions encountered by individuals with new TBI's. Funds from MoAT and from the Adult Brain Injury Program were combined for this initiative.
Lessons Learned/Replication
The initial AT toolkit focused on AT devices for individuals with TBI who struggled with emotional control The kit contained five devices ranging from low to high tech and supporting instructions. Case managers assisting these individuals were also trained as additional support. While the devices contained in the toolkits did translate to improvements among those who received them, we learned that there was a need for better materials to assist the users, among other things. This collaboration has helped connect MoAT to several key local and state agencies addressing TBI and will serve as the basis for further collaboration. This initiative will continue and be refined. Replication efforts should put an emphasis on understanding learning styles, support networks and technology comfort of participants.