For People with Intellectual Disabilities
Department of Developmental Services
Individuals who are clients of the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) may be eligible to receive AT through DDS’s Adaptive Technology Services. Read more.
Assistive Technology Services at the DDS
The Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) provides services to adults 18 years of age or older who have intellectual disabilities and to children under age 18 with developmental disabilities. A variety of supports, housing options, training, and services can be provided to match the specific needs of individual consumers and their families. These services can include adaptive technology devices and services for work, home, and community. The DDS service coordinator works with consumers to ensure their AT devices and service needs are met, including referrals to a DDS adaptive technology center when appropriate.
Currently, there are five adaptive technology centers located throughout the Commonwealth. Four of these centers support individuals who live at DDS facilities. The Kelley Assistive Technology Center in Hathorne (serving the northeast), and Commonwealth Community Services’ Adaptive Design Services in Northampton (serving western and central Massachusetts) also serve DDS consumers who reside either in community residential settings or at home with their families. AT services provided by DDS range from assessments and evaluations to the design, fabrication, modification, and repair of equipment and devices. Services address mobility, environmental, vocational, leisure, and communication needs.
Read more.
MCDHH’s Communication Access, Technology, and Training Services Department (CATTS) provides free technical assistance to workplaces looking to improve their effectiveness when interacting with individuals who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing. Employees with hearing loss, employers, and others can contact CATTS to evaluate their workplace, review existing equipment, and offer necessary technical recommendations. Advocacy assistance is also available for employees needing help to obtain appropriate accommodations.
Who is Eligible?
Individuals, employers, other state agencies, and businesses can all utilize CATTS services free of charge.
How are AT Services Provided?
CATTS staff evaluate each request individually to determine specific needs. They then provide recommendations and arrange appropriate services based on this evaluation.
What AT Services are Provided?
CATTS does not provide direct funding for AT devices. However, the department offers free technical assistance, worksite evaluations, and recommendations for equipment and accommodations.
Contact CATTS:
(617) 740-1600 Voice
(617) 740-1700 TTY
(800) 882-1155 Voice
(800) 530-7570 TTY
CATTS web page
Videophone:
Dial (617) 265-8447
or use the following IP
address: 70.22.152.162