Hi there friends! I was thrilled to have the opportunity to visit, and be involved in filming, the Tools for Life labs at GA Tech!
Okay, I know, you’re wondering why I’m excited and what in the world the Tools for Life (TFL) program is to begin with, so let me tell you! TFL is a program for Georgians of all ages and disabilities. It’s all about increasing independence! You can go and see assistive technology (AT) in-person before you buy. Each person is different and TFL can help you find and learn to use the tech that best meets your unique needs. That part’s important, “that best meets your unique needs.” It’s important because you can find out exactly what you (or a loved one) needs BEFORE you spend money.
Do you need a device, like Google Nest or an Amazon Alexa, to help you with some home functions? Did you know a weighted spoon can help someone with tremors? Or that there’s a spoon that will feed you with the touch of a button? How about an adaptive joystick or button to play video games?
The bigger question is: how do you know, if you don’t know? I think that, sometimes, you can get so used to doing things the one way you know how, with the things you have at home, that you don’t look for a better way. But there’s a tool for that! And that’s where TFL comes in.
But, I’m getting ahead of myself. Let’s talk about getting there. The team at TFL is happy to make an appointment with you to come up and have a demonstration or even to schedule a zoom presentation for you. If you’re going in-person, they will send you detailed directions, which I found very helpful. There is accessible parking and a ramp right at the doors to the building.
Candy Factory to Assistive Technology Labs
Entering the old candy factory building in Atlanta, you see nods to the past. Exposed brick walls, wood beams, and heavy metal sliding doors. Visually, it’s pretty cool. Once you’re out of the lobby area, there’s a winding hallway taking you back to the TFL labs. There are different labs housed in the same area. A couple have their own rooms, but the rest are part of joined open spaces where you have plenty of room to move around.
There are seven labs in the large space; all different, but all connected with the purpose of helping you find exactly what you need to make life easier.
The seven labs include:
Assistive Technology for Aging in Place and Dementia
Assistive Technology for Daily Living
Assistive Technology for Hearing and Vision
AAC – Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Environmental Control and Sensory Lab
AT and Intimacy Lab
Adaptive Gaming
In our video, you can see some of the labs and a few items that they have to offer. One of my favorite things was in the Environmental Control and Sensory Lab. It’s a meditation sand table that is designed to increase relaxation, inspire creativity, boost mood, and enhance focus. You watch as a little metal roller ball glides silently through sand creating whichever pattern you tell it to with the accompanying app. It’s very much like watching fish swim in a tank. I think it’s very calming and wouldn’t mind having one because, unlike fish in a tank, there’s no “caring” for it; it just does its thing and that saves me time. Remember, I mentioned before, being able to try something out before you buy it? Well, this table is around $200 online. Seeing it in action before purchase makes SO much sense.
The Adaptive Gaming lab was also cool. Knowing that you can play video games with a button placed beside your head (if that’s the best way for you) was eye opening. I’d never have thought of that, but I’m so glad that someone did!
In the Assistive Technology for Daily Living lab, they have a Monopoly game and Uno cards with a braille!
Tools for Life also has a lending library! Once you’ve visited (or had your virtual visit), you can borrow items for up to 6 weeks. If you don’t go in-person, items can be shipped. There are exceptions to this rule including huge pieces of equipment and more expensive items.
I saw a lot of helpful equipment there that day and I was impressed, but I was most impressed by the TFL team – Martha, Christie, Hunter, Tori, and Rachel – who you’ll meet in the video and are not just experts; they’re passionate about helping people find independence. They understand that sometimes the simplest solution can make the biggest difference.
They are a group of innovative problem-solvers, using their expertise and imagination to match people with the perfect tools for their needs. Everyone was warm and welcoming. They answered all of my questions and gave up their afternoons to be on camera.
Speaking of cameras, I would be terribly remiss not to mention Raminta, Video Production Manager. Raminta (and son, Martin) were phenomenal! At the beginning, I mentioned that I was involved in filming, as in, I stood there and asked questions while waiting on my turn to be on camera. Normally, my husband, Richard shoots for me, but this time, she did all the video for us and made everyone look like a million bucks. I so enjoyed meeting and working with her. Thank you, Raminta!
Want to see this amazing place for yourself? Check out the video. It’s eye-opening, I promise!
Remember, folks – independence comes in many forms, and Tools for Life is here to help you find what works for you. Whether you need a little tech boost or a simple tool to make daily tasks easier, they’ve got you covered.
So why not give TFL a shout and see what they have for you? You might be surprised at how a small change can make a big difference!
Stay curious, stay independent, and remember – sometimes the simplest tools can be real game-changers! Whether you’re considering a $200 meditation aid or a $20 adaptive tool, Georgia Tech Tools for Life is here to help you make informed decisions. Their “try before you buy” approach could save you money and, more importantly, help you find the perfect tool to enhance your independence and quality of life!
