The rules for low-cost assistive technology in the NDIS Act 34: Reasonable and Necessary Supports state that the technology must be reasonable and necessary for the participant, and must represent value for money. In addition, the support must be effective and beneficial for the participant, and should take into account what it is reasonable to expect families, carers, and the community to provide. The technology should also be most appropriately funded through the NDIS, and not through other general systems of service delivery or support services.
Under the Flexible low cost AT for Support Continuity document, participants can spend up to $1,500 on low cost assistive technology items, such as smart devices and fitness equipment, in consultation with their existing support providers. These items must meet certain conditions, including maintaining or improving the delivery of funded NDIS supports, being necessary to continue supports and services while maintaining physical distancing and other health requirements, and being the lowest specification that will maintain funded supports.
In general, ICT support needs to keep in mind the NDIS Act 34 and the Flexible low cost AT for Support Continuity document when providing assistive technology to NDIS participants. This technology should be reasonable and necessary, and should help the participant pursue their goals and aspirations, facilitate their social and economic participation, and be effective and beneficial. The technology should also be funded through the NDIS, and not through other general systems of service delivery or support services.
Smart virtual assistants and voice-controlled devices can be reasonable and necessary for individuals with motion and cognitive issues. These technologies can provide a range of benefits, including:
Improved accessibility: Smart virtual assistants and voice-controlled devices can be an important tool for individuals with motion and cognitive issues, as they allow the user to access and control technology using only their voice. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who may have difficulty using a keyboard, mouse, or other traditional input devices due to physical impairments or cognitive challenges.
Increased independence: By enabling individuals to control technology using only their voice, smart virtual assistants and voice-controlled devices can help increase their independence. This can be particularly important for individuals with motion and cognitive issues, who may require assistance with daily tasks or activities. By using voice-controlled technology, these individuals can perform many tasks on their own, without needing to rely on others for help.
Enhanced communication: Smart virtual assistants and voice-controlled devices can also improve communication for individuals with motion and cognitive issues. For example, individuals with speech impairments may be able to use voice-controlled technology to generate text or speech, allowing them to more easily communicate with others. Additionally, voice-controlled devices can be used to control home automation systems, allowing individuals to easily adjust the lighting, temperature, or other settings in their home.
Overall, smart virtual assistants and voice-controlled devices can be reasonable and necessary for individuals with motion and cognitive issues, as they can provide improved accessibility, increased independence, and enhanced communication. These technologies can help individuals with these challenges to more easily access and control technology, perform daily tasks, and communicate with others.