Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS)

Virginia Assistive Technology System (VATS) is a grant from the Virginia Assistive Technology System that helps Virginians with disabilities acquire appropriate assistive technology devices and services that enable fuller participation at work, school, home, and in the community.

The program serves Virginians of any age with a disability, along with their family members and service providers, offering equipment loan programs, device reuse initiatives, and technical assistance resources. Eligible applicants include any Virginian with a disability or their support network. Specific funding amounts vary by program component.

Assistive Technology - DARS The Virginia Assistive Technology System connects Virginians with disabilities, family members, and professionals with assistive technology devices, services and resources to help individuals more fully participate at work, school, home, and the community.

Try out adaptive equipment for 1-4 weeks Free tech for those that qualify Equipment you’re no longer using can help others Paying for Assistive Tech Not sure where to start? We’re here to help. Our staff can provide individualized consultations to address your specific needs.

Call us at 804-662-9990 or fill out our contact form . What is assistive technology? Assistive technology is a tool, device, piece of technology, or service that makes the world more accessible for individuals with a variety of mental and physical disabilities.

What types of assistive technology are available? Assistive technology is available for individuals with hearing loss, visual impairments, mobility challenges, cognitive difficulties, and mental health conditions. A range of assistance is available – from low-tech options like reachers and shoe horns, to tech-driven learning devices, to mobility scooters and chairs.

We explain the available options more in depth here . How do I know what type of assistive technology is right for me? Typically, an assessment is both necessary and helpful.

This often takes a team approach and includes the professional opinion from healthcare providers, rehabilitation experts, social services, psychologists, and occupational or physical therapists. Who is eligible for assistance from the Virginia Assistive Technology System? We serve any Virginian, of any age, with a disability, in addition to their family, and service providers who work with people with disabilities.

This includes individuals with age-related disabilities. The Virginia Assistive Technology System does not have funds to assist with purchasing assistive technology. However, there are Virginia-based nonprofits and other resources to make assistive technology available to those in need.

Learn more here . Can someone show me how to use assistive technology? Yes, we offer demonstrations on how to use a variety of assistive technology tools.

Schedule a demonstration here . Can I borrow assistive technology? Yes, we loan out assistive technology for short-term use, usually between 1-4 weeks.

Are schools required to provide assistive technology to students? Schools are required to consider assistive technology devices and services when an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is being developed. Parents and student advocates can make sure this happens by asking about assistive technology options during a planning session.

What are my assistive technology rights? The Virginia Assistive Technology System collaborates with the Disability Law Center of Virginia which protects against discrimination and advocates for individuals with disabilities. They can be reached at 1-800-552-3962 .

The Virginia Assistive Technology System team can also help you understand your rights and offer advice on available next steps. Call us at 804-662-9990 or submit an inquiry here . Can you help with hearing aids?

No. The Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing can help with acquiring hearing aids. How can I get durable medical equipment? We help facilitate requests for equipment or technology through our equipment exchange program, which relies on a state-wide network of contacts.

You can learn more or submit a request here . We also partner with local organizations and nonprofits that work directly with individuals to help people get the medical equipment they need. Request assistance from the local group nearest you here .

I have medical equipment that I no longer need, do you accept donations? Yes! Please complete this form to list gently used durable medical equipment on our exchange for another person in Virginia to claim.

This program is managed by the Virginia Assistive Technology System .