Technology Should Open Doors—Not Create Barriers

For many of us, technology is simply part of everyday life. We use smartphones to stay connected, apps to manage appointments, websites to access services and computers to work, learn and explore the world.

But for people with disabilities, digital access isn’t always that simple. Easterseals SoCal and Digital Inclusion Week are helping to change that. 

Digital Inclusion Week is Oct. 4-10

This annual awareness campaign raises awareness about the digital divide—with workshops being hosted in communities across the country—recognizing the importance of making technology accessible to everyone. 

It’s also an opportunity to highlight how digital tools can create greater independence, connection and opportunity for people with disabilities.

Digital inclusion isn’t just about having a device or an internet connection. It’s about having the access, skills and accommodations needed to use technology independently.

Digital Inclusion is all Year Long at Easterseals

At Easterseals SoCal (ESSC), inclusion means looking at the whole picture of what people need to live, work, learn and participate fully in their communities. That includes ensuring they can access the digital world, too.

From accessible websites and communication tools to assistive technology and digital skills, the right resources can help people with disabilities connect with family and friends, pursue education and employment, access essential services and make their voices heard.

ESSC’s Tech Programs

ESSC has a variety of programs designed to break down barriers, make the digital world more accessible and open the door to greater connection, independence and opportunity:

Assistive Communication and Technology

During Digital Inclusion Week, ESSC’s Assistive Communication and Technology Services (ACTS) team is celebrating major growth in access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices for children and families.

Thanks to support from the Innovation Fund and a new $20,000 Anaheim Ducks Foundation Fly Together grant, ACTS will add more than 40 AAC devices to its programs this year. 

Through the Hear My Voice loaner program and the Permanent Device program, families can access communication devices based on their needs, regardless of income or insurance status.

 ACTS also introduced a new referral process to ensure devices are distributed fairly and efficiently, helping participants maintain access to communication support even as their services change. 

The program continues to support families through individualized AAC training sessions and ongoing collaboration with therapy teams. This team-based approach helps ensure that caregivers and therapists feel empowered to use and model the AAC system across daily activities.

Looking ahead, the team plans to expand eligibility to reach even more children and families across ESSC programs, making sure every child has a voice and the tools they need to be heard.

Hans the Research Assistant Robot

Hans is a humanoid robot who looks like he’s stepped straight out of a sci-fi movie, but he’s also a robot with a mission. Since 2022, he has served as a Research Assistant Robot for ESSC’s Autism Research Team.

Hans helps researchers conduct studies and collect data. But he does much more than work in the lab. He teaches new skills to therapists and provides therapeutic services to people receiving autism services.

He also helps raise community awareness and has become something of a celebrity at Easterseals events. He even appeared in a popular children’s series, where Blippi meets Hans and explores how children can learn and play in different ways.

As fire season is here once again, Hans has been making appearances at ESSC Safety Fairs, teaching people about fire safety—and then putting their knowledge to the test. He quizzes participants on what they’ve learned and reinforces correct responses with his signature singing and dancing.

Now, Hans is helping pave the way for another innovative research project. Currently in development, the project will explore whether Hans can instruct ESSC’s Behavior Interventionists in various data-collection methods. If successful, it could provide a new, technology-driven approach to training while exploring how robotics can support the work of behavioral health professionals.

Hans is a fun and engaging example of how technology can help break down barriers, expand learning and create new possibilities for people with disabilities—making him a perfect ambassador for digital inclusion.

Tech Lending Library

The Technology Lending Library (TLL) provides loaned technology devices, IT support and personalized training through partnering Regional Centers to help people with disabilities use technology in ways that support their goals, preferences and daily needs.

In addition to laptops, iPads and JayPads, the library also features the most up-to-date technology like C-Pen Reader, small handheld devices that scan text and read it aloud through a speaker or headphones.

Beyond providing devices, TLL staff helps each person learn to use their technology—virtually or in-person—for connecting with family and friends; accessing telehealth or other virtual services and resources; using communication tools; exploring education and employment opportunities; exploring personal interests; or building skills that support independence.

The program also supports the installation of AAC software and coordinates required accessibility equipment, providing such items as protective cases, wheelchair mounts and adaptive accessories.

An ADS Digital Literacy Grant continues to help expand digital access and technology skills across ADS through a curriculum designed with input from the people it serves. 

Virtual Community 

ESSC’s Virtual Community is a digital platform available to Adult Day Services (ADS) participants, providing access to live events where individuals can connect to various activities, workshops and  experiences they might not be able to attend due to mobility limitations, lack of transportation, distance or other barriers.

Initially launched as an excel spreadsheet in 2020 as a response to the pandemic, ADS quickly saw the need to create an online community platform. Now the program is so popular that they have been able to expand their services to include afternoon hours and launch livestreams, which include concerts, special events (like the upcoming Strides Walk), conferences (like the Abilities Expo and the Safety and Wellness Fair) and more.

The program is also an important contributor to the ADS Digital Literacy Grant initiative, providing ongoing access to digital learning opportunities, virtual training and technology-based resources—helping build digital confidence and practical technology skills for both ADS associates and participants.

Learning Tech Tips

ESSC also has provided instructional courses for service participants to learn tech tips that help make their lives easier—available both online and in person.

As technology becomes an even bigger part of our daily lives, ensuring that everyone can participate isn’t optional—it’s essential to building a truly inclusive community.