Transition Assistance

MassMATCH is committed to helping elders and adults with disabilities return to their homes by improving access to assistive technology. Many individuals prefer living in their own communities rather than in long-term care facilities, but the transition often requires assistive technology to be successful. To address this need, MassMATCH established TACLE—Transition Assistance to Community Living Environment—ensuring that no one is prevented from moving home due to a lack of essential equipment like a wheelchair, grab bar, or other assistive devices.

With funding and oversight from MassMATCH, TACLE launched in 2007-2008 as a partnership with Easter Seals Massachusetts. That year, Easter Seals collaborated with Metro West Center for Independent Living to develop a user-friendly AT assessment tool. This tool helps case managers, social workers, healthcare providers, and other professionals identify an individual’s assistive technology needs and determine the appropriate AT services. It also establishes an effective referral process for securing necessary AT support.

In 2009 and 2014, TACLE expanded access to the AT assessment tool through targeted training sessions. These trainings were designed for staff members at Independent Living Centers, Aging Service Access Points, supported living programs, brain injury services, and state agencies assisting individuals with disabilities (including acquired brain injuries) and elders in transition. Five trainings took place in 2009, with six scheduled for 2014.

TACLE aims to build a system-wide foundation for accessible assistive technology, ensuring that elders and adults with disabilities can successfully transition back to their home communities.

TACLE materials are available to download at this MassMATCH web page