What is technology for people with disabilities?
It is called Assistive Technology or AT. “Assistive Technology” includes devices that people with disabilities can use to help themselves communicate, learn, travel, do household chores, care for themselves, and have fun. An Assistive Technology device is defined in the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 as amended as “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.”
Assistive technology services are defined as “any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.”
What is GSAT?
It is Guam’s System for Assistive Technology or GSAT, a federally-funded program authorized under the Assistive Technology Act of 1998. GSAT provides assistive technology – related services to children and adults with disabilities who are residents of Guam so that they can live productive, independent, and quality lives.
What can GSAT do for me?
- Help you identify AT that can help you.
- Demonstrate different AT devices that might be helpful to you.
- Let you try out an AT device before you make a decision to obtain it. Borrowing an AT device is FREE to you.
- Assist you in acquiring an AT device that might help you out.
How do I find out about or identify the assistive technology that might help me?
Staff at Guam’s System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) can help you identify what assistive technology devices might help you maintain your productivity and independence, and if you have a child with a disability, might help with learning. Just call GSAT staff at 735 – 2490 (voice) or 735-2491 and they will discuss possible assistive technology devices that will improve your ability to move around, communicate, learn, cook, and lots more.
Can someone demonstrate how to use a piece of assistive technology that I might be able to use?
YES. Requests for a demonstration can be made by calling GSAT staff at 735-2490 (v) or 735 -2491 (v and TTY). A mutually convenient time for the demonstration will be set.
What is Guam’s Assistive Technology Lending Library?
Guam’s Assistive Technology Lending Library is a free service that loans assistive technology devices to people with disabilities. It’s available to residents of Guam of all ages and disabilities. The loan period is up to 30 days.
What is the GOAL – AT Loan Program?
Goal AT can help you obtain an affordable financial loan so that you can purchase a needed Assistive Technology device or service.
If you are a person with a disability or a family member of a child with a disability, you may be able to get an affordable financial loan to purchase any of the following types of Assistive Technology:
- Hearing Aids & Listening Devices
- Wheelchairs or Scooters
- Home modifications/ ramps
- Lifts and vehicle modifications
- Computers, computer software, and accessories
- Communication devices
What is Get Guam Teleworking Loan Program?
The GGT Loan Program is a federally-funded program that provides a low interest loan to individuals with disabilities who desire to become self-employment. The loan can be used to purchase equipment, supplies, and inventory related to the operation of the business. Referrals are made to the Small Business Development Center for assistance in developing a business plan.
What if I want to sell (or buy) a used piece of assistive technology?
Guam’s System for Assistive Technology (GSAT) supports an online and call-in system that may be a source for “previously-owned” assistive devices, usually available at a lower cost than buying new. This service helps get used assistive technology devices such as wheelchairs, walkers, commodes, lifts, portable ramps, and other devices out of attics and garages and into the hands of people with disabilities that need them. This service is provided through Guam recycling and Equipment Exchange Service (“GREES Classified”). If you do not have access to the web, you can also call GSAT staff at 735 – 2490 (v) or 735- 2491 (TTY) and they will read the classifieds to you.
How do I get to GSAT’s Office?
GSAT is located in House 19, Dean’s Circle at the University of Guam.
View GSAT Location and transportation information.