Massachusetts Social Security Disability Lawyers Blog
The physically and mentally disabled have long benefited from medical and technological advancements. In addition to equipment that helps with mobility and transportation, the mentally impaired can also benefit from computer technologies and communications devices. According to recent reports, the University of Massachusetts in Boston and IBM are collaborating on new ways to benefit the disabled and the elderly with technological advancements.
Individuals who have become disabled over time, as a result of disease or an accident, may find themselves reliant on technological advancements, including wheelchairs, communication devices and other aids. Individuals who suffer from a disability face challenges beyond physical and mental impairments. These disabilities can impact financial security, emotional well-being and the ability to connect with a community. Social Security disability insurance benefits may help you regain financial footing after disability. Our Boston SSDI attorneys are dedicated to helping individuals and families collect financial support in the event of disability. We understand the difficulties and challenges faced by our clients and are committed to raising awareness and encouraging developments in disability technology.
UMass and IBM will be working together in a partnership to open the Collaborative Innovation Center to perform research and develop ways to improve technological resources for individuals with vision or hearing impairments and other disabilities. According to advocates for the center, the focus will be on new technology, but the center also hopes to create initiatives in the government, schools and in businesses to increase computer technology usability for the disabled community.
For those of us without a disability, accessing the Internet is not complicated–essentially we only need a computer and access to wireless. For individuals with disabilities, including hearing or vision disabilities, accessing the Internet and getting online can have a number of obstacles. Reduced access to the Internet can reduce communication, limit access to jobs, and even prevent educational opportunities. Access to the Web is critical for all members of our community and the Collaborative Innovation Center hopes to enhance Internet usage opportunities for the disabled and help them to participate in the community.
The University of Massachusetts in Boston was the first university to provide services to disabled persons. Lead researchers and university liaisons who will be partnering with IBM may be in the best position to help foster growth in other schools, business and in the public sector. UMass collaborators hope that working with IBM researchers will improve the ability to develop the most advanced and accessible new technologies for the disabled community.
Currently the center is primarily focused on collaboration and research; however, the development of new products could open the door for future profits for the technology company. According to the American Association of People with Disabilities, 54 percent of disabled adults are able to use the Internet, compared with 81 percent of individuals without a disability. This creates a wide divide and excludes individuals who are unable to access the Internet because of usage issues. The Center hopes to collaborate with experts in a range of disciplines to conduct research to create advanced Web products, including apps for mobile devices and tablets.
If you are considering filing for SSDI in Boston, call for a free and confidential appointment at (617) 777-7777.
More Blog Entries:
SSDI Ticket to Work Program Aims for Recipient Financial Independence, July 7, 2013, Boston Social Security Disability Lawyer Blog
Disability Risk Increases With Age, July 20, 2013, Boston Social Security Disability Lawyer Blog