Tools for Life, Georgia's AT Act Program

02/13/2026

We continue celebrating Black History Month by highlighting innovators and inventors who transformed assistive technology!

Bessie Blount Griffin, a World War II nurse and physiotherapist, revolutionized assistive technology with her hands‑free feeding device designed to help veterans who lost the use of their arms regain independence.

In 1952, she even flew to France to give away her automatic feeding device so it could be used to support disabled veterans worldwide.

Bessie's compassion and innovation paved the way for today’s advanced assistive technologies. She was a true pioneer who changed lives and dedicated herself to empowering people with disabilities!

02/10/2026

The Game Study teams at Emory University and Georgia Tech are recruiting participants for a research study to understand how online games can help older adults feel more connected.

To participate, you must be:
- Between 50 and 85 years old
- Cognitively healthy or have mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
- Fluent in English

You'll get to play fun online games like Uno or Connect 4 with someone you know, three times a week for 12 weeks! You’ll also chat with our study team about the social activities you’re doing (we’ll check in for up to 24 weeks). Just complete a few quick surveys about how you’re feeling throughout the study. You can earn up to $75 for participating!

Sound fun? Contact games.study@emory.edu to learn more. Let’s play, stay connected, and make a difference together!

02/06/2026

Innovation isn’t just about invention; it’s about providing access!

This Black History Month, we are celebrating Black innovators shaping and transforming assistive technology and disability.

Today, we want to spotlight Marian Croak, whose work in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) powers platforms like Zoom, Teams, and FaceTime, along with accessibility features, such as speech-to-text, real-time text, and sign language communication. Her innovations help make remote communication more inclusive and accessible for everyone!

Visit www.invent.org/inductees/marian-croak to learn more about Marian Croak and her other inventions and innovations.

02/03/2026

Our team has been busy so far in 2026, and that means it's time for the February edition of our newsletter!

Visit https://bit.ly/TFL-News-Feb26 for the latest goings-on from the Tools for Life team.

01/31/2026

That's a wrap for ! The Tools for Life and Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation teams have given their presentations, visited with network connections from across the country, and tried out new AT products in the Exhibit Hall.

It's always a pleasure to attend the annual Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference. We are already looking forward to next year!

01/31/2026

And we just keep going!

The Tools for Life and Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation teams have been going nonstop, providing insightful and informative sessions at the annual Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference. Yesterday, our combined teams hosted four sessions and a poster!

With another half-day of conference sessions remaining, we continue to share our expertise and expand our professional networks at .

01/30/2026

Our team is on a roll with conference sessions!

Tools for Life Program Director Jennifer Ro gave a presentation yesterday at the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Conference titled "Developing Access Skills for Technology: Students with Complex Motor Impairments." The session was attended by assistive technology professionals from across the country, including educators, assistive technology specialists, and more.

Here's to another great day at !

01/30/2026

Standing room only! Occupational Therapist Rachel Scarboro gave a presentation yesterday at the annual Assistive Technology Industry Association Conference titled "Activating Success: A Guide to Switch Control on the iPad." Every seat was filled, with some other participants finding places to stand along the walls and spots to sit on the floor!

Though only a handful of practice iPads and switches were available, Rachel had a great turnout and participation from other attendees!

01/29/2026

Tools for Life and the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation team members are all set and excited as the first day of sessions at the annual Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Conference kicks off here in Orlando! Everyone is geared up for an amazing week of learning, connecting, and sharing the latest in assistive technology.

Here’s to a great start to !

01/23/2026

Many students with disabilities face challenges in their studies due to inaccessible materials.

The National Center on Accessible Digital Education Materials & Instruction (NCADEMI) helps schools transition from awareness to action, empowering them to choose digital materials that support all learners. As educators, you play a crucial role in creating inclusive environments.

Now is the perfect time to enhance your accessibility strategy! Schedule your pre-enrollment meeting at https://ncademi.org/audiences/seas-leas to ensure every learner has the support they need from day one.

01/22/2026

Attending pre-conference sessions during this year's Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Conference? Be sure to check out the TechSAge RERC seminar on Wednesday, January 28!

Register now for the TechSAge pre-conference workshop at Assistive Technology Industry Association on 1/28 in Orlando, FL "Supporting the Needs of Older Adults Aging with Disability through Technology"
Learn more 👉 https://www.atia.org/precon/

01/21/2026

It's almost time for the annual Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) Conference in Orlando, Florida!

Members of the Tools for Life team, along with others from the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation, are attending and presenting at ATIA later this month. If you are attending the conference, let us know and check out these sessions!