An overview of the assistive technology scene in Canada

In Canada, there is a growing trend toward the use of assistive technology to increase the participation of people with disabilities in the community at large. Assistive technology alone cannot accomplish this goal of full participation, however. The standards and legislative arenas, and the establishment of cooperative initiatives between community-based organizations and Federal or provincial governments also have roles to play in enabling this participation. This article will delineate some of the resources, initiatives and agencies that come into play so that, through the use of assistive technology, the participation of Canadians with disabilities is encouraged and increased in all aspects of the daily life of the community.