National Assistive Technology Act Data System

Annual Progress Report - Full Report

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Washington 2023

General Information

Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)

State AT Program Title:

Washington Assistive Technology Act Program

State AT Program Title:

State AT Program URL

https://watap.org

Mailing Address:

UW Box 357920

City:

Seattle

State:

Zip Code:

98195

Program Email:

watap@uw.edu

Phone:

800-214-8731

TTY:

866-866-0162

Lead Agency

Agency Name:

University of Washington Center for Technology and Disability Studies

Mailing Address:

University of Washington, UW Box 357920

City:

Seattle

State:

Zip Code:

98195

Program URL:

https://uwctds.washington.edu

Implementing Entity

Does your Lead Agency contract with an Implementing Entity to carry out the Statewide AT Program on its behalf? (Check if Yes)

Name of Implementing Agency:

Mailing Address:

City

State:

Zip Code:

Program URL:

Program Director and Other Contacts

Program Director for State AT Program (last, first):

Knue, Alan

Title:

Director

Phone:

2066856836

E-mail:

aknue@uw.edu

Program Director at Lead Agency (last, first):

Knue, Alan

Title:

Director

Phone:

2066856836

E-mail:

aknue@uw.edu

Primary Contact at Implementing Agency (last, first) - If applicable:

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director

Name (last, first):

Title:

Phone:

E-mail:

Certifying Representative

Name (last, first):

Rhodes, Carol

Title:

Director, Office of Sponsored Programs

Phone:

2065434043

E-mail:

osp@uw.edu

State Financing

Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include any State Financing?

Yes

Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include conducting a Financial Loan Program?

Yes

Loan Applications
	Metro RUCC 1-3	Non-Metro RUCC 4-9	Total
	Area of Residence		Total
Approved Loan made	97	11	108
Approved Not made	10	01	11
Rejected	45	05	50
Total	152	17	169

2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made

Lowest/Highest Incomes
Lowest Income:	$5,004	Highest Income:	$327,288

Average Income
Sum of Incomes	Loans Made	Average Annual Income
$7,883,487	108	$72,995

Number and Percentage of Loans Made to Applicants by Income Range
	$15,000 or Less	$15,001- $30,000	$30,001- $45,000	$45,001- $60,000	$60,001- $75,000	$75,001 or More	Total
	Income Ranges						Total
Number of Loans	16	17	18	12	09	36	108
Percentage of Loans	14.81%	15.74%	16.67%	11.11%	8.33%	33.33%	100%

3. Loan Type

Loan Type
Type of Loan	Number of Loans	Percentage of loans
Revolving Loans	108	100%
Partnership Loans
Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee	00	0%
With interest buy-down only	00	0%
With loan guarantee only	00	0%
With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee	00	0%
Total	108	100%

Loan Type Summary
Type of Loan	Number of Loans	Dollar Value of Loans
Revolving Loans	108	$1,476,515
Partnership Loans	00	$0
Total	108	$1,476,515

4. Interest Rates

Interest Rates
Lowest	5%
Highest	5%

Interest Rate Summary
Sum of Interest Rates	Number of Loans Made	Average Interest Rate
540	108	5%

Number of Loans Made by Interest Rate
Interest Rate	Number of loans
0.0% to 2.0%	00
2.1% to 4.0%	00
4.1% to 6.0%	108
6.1% to 8.0%	00
8.1% - 10.0%	00
10.1%-12.0%	00
12.1%-14.0%	00
14.1% +	00
Total	108

5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed

Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed
Type of AT	Number of Devices Financed	Dollar Value of Loans
Vision	03	$3,467
Hearing	33	$98,321
Speech communication	00	$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental	00	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	11	$18,670
Daily living	26	$69,952
Environmental adaptations	01	$7,060
Vehicle modification and transportation	43	$1,271,764
Computers and related	09	$7,281
Recreation, sports, and leisure	00	$0
Total	126	$1,476,515

6. Defaults

Defaults
Number Loans in default	00
Net loss for loans in default	$0

B. State Financing Activities that provide consumers with resources and services that result in the acquisition of AT devices and services

1. Overview of Activities Performed

How many other state financing activities that provide consumers with access to funds for the purchase of AT devices and services were included in your approved state plan?

Activity 1

How would you describe this state financing activity?

Other: Individual Development Accounts

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of Residence	Individuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)	4
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)	0
C. Total Served	4

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure	0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	4

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / Service	Number of Devices Funded	Value of AT Provided
Vision	7	$666
Hearing	0	$0
Speech communication	0	$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental	0	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	1	$2,638
Daily living	18	$3,592
Environmental adaptations	0	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	2	$1,000
Computers and related	12	$3,626
Recreation, sports, and leisure	4	$280
Total	44	$11,802

Activity 2

How would you describe this state financing activity?

Telecommunications equipment distribution

2. Geographic Distribution, Number of Individuals Who Acquired AT Devices and Services and Number for whom Performance Measure Data are Collected

County of Residence	Individuals Served
A. Metro (RUCC 1-3)	61
B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9)	2
C. Total Served	63

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure	0
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	63

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:

3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded

Type of AT Device / Service	Number of Devices Funded	Value of AT Provided
Vision	31	$30,539
Hearing	11	$2,166
Speech communication	0	$0
Learning, cognition, and developmental	0	$0
Mobility, seating and positioning	3	$102
Daily living	0	$0
Environmental adaptations	0	$0
Vehicle modification and transportation	0	$0
Computers and related	45	$40,611
Recreation, sports, and leisure	0	$0
Total	90	$73,418

C. State Financing Activities that Allow Consumers to Obtain AT at Reduced Cost

1. Overview of Activities Performed

How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan?

D. Anecdote

“Mary” lives in a senior living community in Seattle, WA. In June 2023, Mary took out her fifth assistive technology loan from WATAP’s state financing partner, Northwest Access Fund, to purchase a 4-wheeled scooter to replace a 3-wheeled scooter that no longer fit her needs. In the past, she has used loans to purchase other assistive technology including a lift recliner and a wheelchair. Northwest Access Fund’s financing works well for Mary, as the affordable monthly payment works with her limited monthly income. The technology she has purchased makes a significant difference in her ability to live independently, allowing her to go to the store and doctors’ appointments, and to socialize with friends and family. The loans Mary has taken out have helped to build her credit, from a score in the mid-400s in 2019 when she first applied to Northwest Access Fund to over 600 in 2023. Northwest Access Fund has also supported Mary in accessing available resources, such as energy subsidies, that have put money back into her monthly budget and allowed her to start saving $50 monthly. She often refers members in her community to Northwest Access Fund—including her roommate Teddy, who recently received financing for a powerchair—as she says that the Northwest Access Fund is the only way so many of her friends could acquire the mobility equipment that they need.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	02	09	80	91
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	00	02	69	71
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	00	13	13
4. Subtotal	02	11	162	175
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	02	11	162	175
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	02	11	162	175
9. Performance on this measure	100%	100%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	158	90.29%
Satisfied	16	9.14%
Satisfied somewhat	01	0.57%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total Surveyed	175
Response rate %	100%

G. Notes:

Reutilization

Did your approved State Plan for this reporting period included conducting any device reuse activities?

A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices

Activity	Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity
A. Device Exchange	00
B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan	2,833
C. Total	2,833

Performance Measure
D. Excluded from Performance Measure because AT is provided to or on behalf of an entity that has an obligation to provide the AT such as schools under IDEA or VR agencies/clients.	00
E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures	2,833

If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance

B. Device Exchange Activities

Device Exchange
Type of AT Device	Total Estimated Current Purchase Price	Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged	Savings to Consumers
Vision	$0	$0	$0
Hearing	$0	$0	$0
Speech Communication	$0	$0	$0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	$0	$0	$0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	$0	$0	$0
Daily Living	$0	$0	$0
Environmental Adaptations	$0	$0	$0
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	$0	$0	$0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	$0	$0	$0
Total	$0	$0	$0

C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities

Device Reassign/Repair/Refurbish and/or OEL
Type of AT Device	Number of Devices Reassigned/Refurbished and Repaired	Total Estimated Current Purchase Price	Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Sold	Savings to Consumers
Vision	00	$0	$0	$0
Hearing	08	$18,388	$1,600	$16,788
Speech Communication	00	$0	$0	$0
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	00	$0	$0	$0
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	2,067	$2,709,734	$0	$2,709,734
Daily Living	2,273	$406,827	$0	$406,827
Environmental Adaptations	118	$6,561	$0	$6,561
Vehicle Modification & Transportation	00	$0	$0	$0
Computers and Related	00	$0	$0	$0
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	00	$0	$0	$0
Total	4,466	$3,141,510	$1,600	$3,139,910

D. Anecdote

Makayla came to WATAP’s device reuse partner, Bridge Disability Ministries’ Meyer Medical Equipment Center, looking for a pediatric gait trainer for her four-year-old daughter, Brooklyn. One of the local medical centers helps to support the Equipment Center with pediatric equipment drives and as a result, they have a large selection of pediatric equipment including bath and shower chairs, standers, activity chairs, strollers, pediatric wheelchairs, tilt-in-space chairs, as well as replacement parts and accessories. One of the center’s volunteers, Trish, is a physical therapist who specializes in working with children and helps make sure children, like Brooklyn, receive appropriate equipment from the wide variety, range of sizes, and makes and models available for children. Brooklyn was provided an appropriate gait trainer, which was a great financial and emotional relief for Makayla. She was grateful to Meyer Medical Equipment Center for having exactly what her daughter needed, stating “if you need equipment, they are the place to go.”

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	00	00	1,686	1,686
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	00	00	825	825
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	00	322	322
4. Subtotal	00	00	2,833	2,833
5. None of the above	00	00	00	00
6. Subtotal	00	00	2,833	2,833
7. Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
8. Total	00	00	2,833	2,833
9. Performance on this measure	NaN%	NaN%	100%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	2,637	93.08%
Satisfied	85	3%
Satisfied somewhat	45	1.59%
Not at all satisfied	31	1.09%
Nonrespondent	35	1.24%
Total Surveyed	2,833
Response rate %	98.76%

G. Notes:

Our durable medical and daily living device reuse partner discontinued using their former inventory control system on January 1, 2023 and temporarily transitioned to a manual process to record details of each piece of equipment provided and to track inventory. Coupled with volunteer and staff turnover and shortage, the data from January 1-September 30, 2023 was likely an under count in terms of number of individuals served, equipment provided, and associated data. They are confident that their data for FY2024 will be accurate.

Device Loan

Did your approved State Plan for this reporting period included conducting Short-Term Device Loans?

A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose

Loans By Purpose
Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan	Number
Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation)	428
Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding	06
Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation	02
Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity	01
Total	437

B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower

LOANS BY TYPE OF BORROWER
Type of Individual or Entity	Number of Device Borrowers
Type of Individual or Entity	Desicion-making	All other Purposes	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	362	06	368
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	11	00	11
Representative of Education	01	00	01
Representative of Employment	10	01	11
Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	42	02	44
Representatives of Community Living	00	00	00
Representatives of Technology	02	00	02
Total	428	09	437

C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans

Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days	21

D. Types of Devices Loaned

Types of Devices Loaned
Type of AT Device	Number of Devices
Type of AT Device	Desicion-making	All other Purposes	Total
Vision	106	03	109
Hearing	38	01	39
Speech Communication	11	00	11
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	19	01	20
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	07	00	07
Daily Living	146	00	146
Environmental Adaptations	00	00	00
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00	00	00
Computers and Related	176	03	179
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	53	02	55
Total	556	10	566

E. Anecdote

WATAP has a partnership with Timberland Regional Library System, which serves 5 counties in largely rural southwest WA at 34 branch locations. The partnership provides a collection of assistive technology available for borrowing through the online library catalog, which are then delivered to a local library branch for pick up. The devices in the collection are easy-to-use, readily available from retailers, and help support independent living. This program reaches seniors in rural communities who commonly do not self-identify as having a disability. Users of the program provide data and comments on postcards to WATAP. This past year, many users reported that by borrowing and trying the device, they were able to find something they needed, with several reporting that they later purchased the device. “Edgar” tried an extended shoehorn and stated he had no idea something like it existed. He was able to buy one from an online retailer. Another user, “Kara,” borrowed Max TV glasses and found that the device worked very well for her and she also purchased the device online. A simple rubber jar opener included in the collection was rated as the best tool “Chris” had ever used for opening jars! Overwhelmingly, users were grateful that the partnership was making the items available in their library system for people to try.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

F. Access Performance Measures

Access Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	22	41	153	216
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	01	02	02	05
Subtotal	23	43	155	221
Have not made a decision	00	01	00	01
Subtotal	23	44	155	222
Nonrespondent	04	08	194	206
Total	27	52	349	428
Performance on this measure	100%	97.73%	68.33%

G. Acquisition Performance Measures

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	00	03	00	03
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	02	00	00	02
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	00	00	00
4. Subtotal	02	03	00	05
5. None of the above	01	00	00	01
6. Subtotal	03	03	00	06
7. Nonrespondent	01	02	00	03
8. Total	04	05	00	09
9. Performance on this measure	66.67%	100%	NaN%

H. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	248	56.75%
Satisfied	08	1.83%
Satisfied somewhat	01	0.23%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	180	41.19%
Total Surveyed	437
Response rate %	58.81%

I. Notes:

Device Demonstration

A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type

Type of AT Device / Service	Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services
Vision	35
Hearing	39
Speech Communication	36
Learning, Cognition and Developmental	52
Mobility, Seating and Positioning	45
Daily Living	64
Environmental Adaptations	17
Vehicle Modification and Transportation	00
Computers and Related	107
Recreation, Sports and Leisure	30
Total # of Device Demonstrations	425

B. Types of Participants

Type of Participant	Decision-Makers	Other Participants	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	350	01	351
Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives	23	67	90
Representatives of Education	00	07	07
Representatives of Employment	30	32	62
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	21	00	21
Representative of Community Living	01	02	03
Representative of Technology	00	02	02
Total	425	111	536

C. Number of Referrals

Referrals
Type of Entity	Number of Referrals
Funding Source (non-AT program)	00
Service Provider	03
Vendor	63
Repair Service	00
Others	00
Total	66

D. Anecdote

WATAP participated in the Seattle Design Festival Block Party, where our installation featured a bathroom concept that showcased universal design concepts and examples of assistive technology that could be used for self-care and bathing. “Silvia” and “Jim” stopped by and were pleased to see an installation that featured universal design and accessibility and had an in-depth conversation with one of WATAP’s staff who was volunteering at the event. Silvia and Jim are both older adults who were looking for ways to continue living in their home and had not thought about some of the devices available for them to try. They tried long-handled sponges, a long-handled shoehorn, and a sock aid, but they were most interested in the portable grab bars. They had mounted grab bars in their own bathroom but when they were traveling and staying at hotels or with friends or family members, they often found themselves wishing they had grab bars in those places too. The WATAP staff person demonstrated how to safely use the bars, explaining the limitations and other measures to consider when using portable grab bars. But even with these considerations in mind, the couple were surprised at how well they worked even on the relatively rough installation walls. Silvia later wrote that they had purchased the grab bars online and had already used them on several different occasions. The couple were pleased that the bars worked really well for their traveling needs. They had never thought they would find such a valuable tool while visiting the festival.

Impact Area Education Employment Community Living

E. Performance Measures

Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	07	241	94	342
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	01	75	05	81
Subtotal	08	316	99	423
Have not made a decision	00	00	02	02
Subtotal	08	316	101	425
Nonrespondent	00	00	00	00
Total	08	316	101	425
Performance on this measure	100%	100%	98.02%

F. Customer Satisfaction

Satisfaction
Customer Rating of Services	Number of Customers	Percent
Highly satisfied	382	71.27%
Satisfied	148	27.61%
Satisfied somewhat	06	1.12%
Not at all satisfied	00	0%
Nonrespondent	00	0%
Total	536
Response rate %	100%

G. Notes:

Overall Performance Measures

Overall Acquisition Performance Measure

Acquisition Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program.	02	12	1,766	1,780
2. AT was only available through the AT program.	02	02	894	898
3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long.	00	00	335	335
4. Subtotal	04	14	2,995	3,013
5. None of the above	01	00	00	01
6. Subtotal	05	14	2,995	3,014
7. Nonrespondent	01	02	00	03
8. Total	06	16	2,995	3,017
9. Performance on this measure	80%	100%	88.81%	88.85%
ACL Performance Measure				85%
Met/Not Met				Met

Overall Access Performance Measure

Access Performance Measures
Response	Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed			Total
Response	Education	Employment	Community Living	Total
Decided that AT device/service will meet needs	29	282	247	558
Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs	02	77	07	86
Subtotal	31	359	254	644
Have not made a decision	00	01	02	03
Subtotal	31	360	256	647
Nonrespondent	04	08	194	206
Total	35	368	450	853
Performance on this measure	100%	99.72%	77.44%	89.57%
ACL Performance Measure				90%
Met/Not Met				Not Met

Overall Satisfaction Rating

Customer Rating of Services	Percent	ACL Target	Met/Not Met
Highly satisfied and satisfied	97.77%	95%	Met
Response Rate	94.60%	90%	Met

Training

A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution

Training by Participant Type
Type of Participant	Number
Individuals with Disabilities	147
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	59
Representatives of Education	09
Representatives of Employment	158
Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	77
Representatives of Community Living	45
Representatives of Technology	155
Unable to Categorize	00
TOTAL	650

Geographic Distribution of Participants
Metro	Non Metro	Unknown	TOTAL
634	16	00	650

B. Training Topics

Trainings by Topic
Primary Topic of Training	Participants
AT Products/Services	170
AT Funding/Policy/ Practice	00
Combination of any/all of the above	337
Information Technology/Telecommunication Access	81
Transition	62
Total	650

C. Description of Training Activities

Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:

WATAP continues to support the professional development for Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) case managers, employment specialists, and community rehabilitation providers through a series of training opportunities. We provided 17 trainings, 9 in-person and 8 via webinar to 234 participants. The series topics were (1) An Introduction to AT; (2) AT for Safety and Independent Living; (3) Low Tech Solutions for Employment; (4) AT for Learning Disabilities; (5) Ergonomics and Computer Access; (6) AT for Aging Workers; and (7) AT for Sensory Loss. Consistent with preceding years, WATAP’s trainings for DVR were designed to build competencies, promote the consideration of and proper matching of AT, and explore case studies and best practices around topics that have been identified by past participants as needed to better serve DVR clients. All participants are surveyed post training and we continue to address training topic requests and other AT needs from the field.

Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

WATAP participated in the Youth Leadership and Transition Forum, a cooperative project of the state Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment (GCDE), with support from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, the Department of Services for the Blind, and other community partners, including WATAP. Additionally, WATAP provided training at 2 other regional Workshops on Transition for school to work and supported employment participants. Forum and workshop participants not only had the opportunity to explore AT options that can benefit and maintain and/or increase their independence and performance in school but could also meet their changing needs as they transition to post-secondary education, employment and community living. Participants discussed AT services that can be accessed to support decision making as well as resources that could help them with transition related issues.

Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:

WATAP was invited by the City of Seattle to provide on-line training to city employees responsible for developing and posting online content as part of their day-long recognition of the Global Accessibility Awareness Day on May 18, 2023. Our training was provided to 81 participants and the topic was a step-by-step guide and best practices for creating accessible Microsoft Word documents. Participants are using the information gained from this training to improve and implement policies and practices within various city departments to ensure accessibility of citywide resources available on and downloaded from websites and social media sites.

D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure

IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received	Number
IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies	81
Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented	00
No known outcome at this time	00
Nonrespondent	00
Total	81
Performance Measure Percentage	100%
ACL Target Percentage	70%
Met/Not Met	Met

E. Notes:

Technical Assistance

A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance

Technical Assistance by Recipient Type
Education	05%
Employment	15%
Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation	20%
Community Living	50%
Technology (IT, Telecom, AT)	10%
Total	100%

B. Description of Technical Assistance

Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:

WATAP Staff continue to work with various departments in the City of Seattle and King County to support and promote accessible information and communication technology. Staff provided one-on-one consultation to city personnel around correcting accessibility problems on website and addressing electronic document accessibility. WATAP hopes to provide on-going training to support city and county staff to develop policies and procedures that will help departments to address, problem-solve, and correct web and electronic document accessibility issues within their current and future staffing.

Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:

WATAP partnered with AARP Washington, NW Universal Design Council, and Age Friendly Seattle, in planning, designing, and hosting a series of Age-Friendly Housing Forums: “Where Will Seattle's Older Adults Live?” The November 2 kick-off event featured two WATAP staff and one of our Advisory Council members in a panel discussion on how age-friendly home design and assistive technology can help people extend the years they can live safely and comfortably in their homes. Attendees also had the opportunity to visit WATAP’s resource table and experience daily living aids and smart home technology to support independent living. Subsequent forums took place on January 23, March 6, and April 14 and although WATAP had less of a role in these later discussions, participants’ efforts are creating housing environments and resources where seniors who are using AT will certainly benefit.

C. Notes:

Public Awareness

Public Awareness Activities

Public Awareness Narratives

Describe in detail at least one and no more than two innovative or high-impact public awareness activities conducted during this reporting period. Highlight the content/focus of the awareness information shared, the mechanism used to disseminate or communicate the awareness information, the numbers and/or types of individuals reached, and positive outcomes resulting from the activity. If quantative numbers are available regarding the reach of the activity, please provide those: however, quantative data is not required.

1. WATAP participated in the Seattle Design Festival Block Party August 18-20, 2023, partnering with the Northwest Universal Design Council, Jensen Hughes, and Age Friendly Seattle on an installation, titled “How can design drive inclusivity in our homes and neighborhoods.” Our installation featured a bathroom concept that showcased universal design aspects and examples of assistive technology that could be used for self-care and bathing. We had 647 individuals interact with the installation over the weekend, and about 115 having more in-depth conversations around universal design and assistive technology with the installation volunteers. This event allows us to interact and educate more members of the general public about the uses and benefits of assistive technology.

2. WATAP neared completion of a 5-year project funded by King County Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy providing assistive technology services and resources to low-income seniors and unpaid caregivers in rural and tribal communities in King County. We partnered with senior centers located within rural communities to connect with the community to promote healthy independent living, and as a means for us to showcase assistive technology and talk about the potential impact in the daily lives of seniors. WATAP partnered in 12 community events at these senior centers, where we also offered opportunities for training and device demonstrations. WATAP reached over 193 seniors, their caregivers, and their health care provider through tabling and outreach presentations; training workshops focusing on AT to support gardening, medication management, communication, home safety and emergency preparedness, independent living and self-care, hearing, and vision, and low-tech solutions; and device demonstrations and device loans in connection with these events as well.

Information And Assistance

Information And Assistance Activities by Recipient
Types of Recipients	AT Device/ Service	AT Funding	Total
Individuals with Disabilities	617	164	781
Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives	399	93	492
Representative of Education	85	36	121
Representative of Employment	197	27	224
Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation	137	18	155
Representative of Community Living	198	111	309
Representative of Technology	23	12	35
Unable to Categorize	00	00	00
Total	1,656	461	2,117

Referral Types:

Many individuals (~63%) learn about WATAP through community partners and their programs but also as a result of our own outreach (~22%), both in-person and virtual, and through our training and technical assistance efforts provided across the state. One example of on-going outreach that has resulted in increased referrals is through our King County project described under the public awareness section, which has resulted in an increase of rural seniors and their care givers accessing our programs. Another example is our Assistive Technology Providers Network, which promotes more meaningful professional networking, enhances collaboration among the network members and community partners, and promotes cross dissemination of information and resources. Referrals through our Providers Network has resulted in more meaningful referrals over the years from health care practitioners, educators, rehabilitation counselors especially for our device demonstration and device lending programs.

Referral Sources:

The largest portions of our referrals come through our relationships with our employment/ vocational rehabilitation agencies (estimated at 23%), through our state financing partners at the Northwest Access Fund and iCanConnect WA (20%), and through relationships with regional health care providers (14%). We also receive a significant portion of referrals through our in-person outreach (14%), other outreach including webinars (8%) and through Community Living Connects (estimated at 7%) which WATAP is a part of and includes agencies supporting independent living, aging and adult services, veterans, and caregivers. Remaining referrals (estimated at about 8%) come from education, WA AgrAbility, friends and family, and with the remaining 5% of our referrals as not known.

Notes:

Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes

Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities

Coordination/Collaboration activities are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR coordination/collaboration activities for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting?

A. Coordination/Collaboration

1. As concisely as possible, describe the partnership initiative. What activities/services were provided? Who are the major collaborating organizations and what is their role? Who is served/benefited? What funding was used to implement the initiative?

In March of 2023, WATAP began supporting the Washington State Department of Services for the Blind (DSB) Independent Living Services (ILS) program, which provides services to over 1500 Washington State residents annually who are losing vision or blind. ILS utilizes a statewide network of providers, who have experienced teachers who assist clients in teaching and building competency in daily living skills. During the pandemic, ILS began providing smart phones, tablets, and digital assistants, such as Amazon Echo and Google Nest, through a long-term loan program to clients, but the providers’ teachers were often unfamiliar and/or inexperienced in the benefits and usages of these devices, which limited the success of the program. WATAP provided 2 full days of training on technology for the providers’ teachers Participants learned how to navigate smart phones using built in magnification, screen reading, and voice assistant tools for specific tasks such as phone calls, voice mail, text messages, email and notes. They also learned how to setup the Digital Assistants and use different features such as calling, routines, skills, calendaring, etc. Each participant had the use of their own devices so they could practice and learn in real time. There was much sharing of knowledge from WATAP staff and participants and at the end of the training, each participant received a document with extensive resources, tips and instructions discussed during the training.

2. As concisely as possible, describe the measurable results of the initiative and any lessons learned. How did access to AT change as a result of the coordination/collaboration/partnership? How did awareness of AT change as a result of the partnership? How did the reach of the state AT program change as a result of the partnership? What made the partnership successful? What would you change or wish you had done differently? Provided funding/resources are available, will the initiative continue or is this a one-time event? What advice would you give for replication of the initiative? Please include URL for initiative if available.

Through this partnership, WATAP supports the professional development needs through annual statewide and comprehensive training for ILS providers’ teachers to increase effective implementation of the long-term loan program to meet independent living outcomes of their clients. As the teachers become more confident in using the technology, they are more likely to match the functional needs of their clients with these technologies and provide the necessary technical support to increase the successful use by the clients as well. This partnership is increasing a cross referral of clients to both WATAP and ILS services that would be mutually beneficial to support building and mastering independent living skills. Since on-going professional development is necessary for current staff and to support training new staff, this training will be provided by WATAP to ILS providers’ teachers annually going forward.

3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?

Community Participation and Integration; Health; Aging; Aging and Disability Network / No Wrong Door; Information and Communication Technology / Remote Connectivity;

4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?

Training;

Overview of State Improvement Activities

State improvement outcomes are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR state improvement outcomes for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting?

Additional And Leveraged Funds

A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities

Fund Source	Amount	Use of Funds	Data Reported
Public/State Agency	$73,286	Technical Assistance	True
Private	$148,463	State Financing	True
Federal	$19,711	Demonstration	True
Federal	$16,895	State Financing	False
Private	$910	Device Loan	True
Public/State Agency	$9,335	Demonstration	True
Public/State Agency	$63,375	Training	True
Federal	$19,711	Device Loan	True
Public/State Agency	$33,752	Public Awareness, I&A	True
Public/State Agency	$17,887	Device Loan	True
	Amount: $403,325

For any leveraged funding reported above for which data could not be reported, please describe the extenuating circumstances that precluded data from being reported and efforts to remediate the situation in future reporting periods.

We used funding from our Public Health Workforce Grant to research and develop a on-demand 3D printing last resort program to support independent living. We have launched on October 1, 2023 and will report data from this program in FY2024.

B. Public Health Workforce Grant Award

All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in supplimental Public Health Workforce grant funding to increase the full-time equivalent (FTE) of staff withing the disability and aging network for public health professionals. Please document the status of these funds below.

The status of these funds at the end of the FY23 (9/30/2023) is as follows: (Check one) We did not utilize this funding in FY23 and wish to decline the funds in the future
We did not expend any of this funding in FY23, but plan to expend funding in FY24 and/or FY25
We expended some of all of this funding in FY23 (please complete the section below)

Please report the amount expended (drawn down and liquidated) in this reporting period, FY23:

$56,318.00

Please report the number of Full Time Equivalent (FTE) positions this funding supported by type. This can be a direct employee FTE or contractual FTE.

Type of FTE Position	FTE Positions (0.01 to 9.99)
Assistive Technology Specialist	0.70
Information and Assistance Specialist	0.00
Outreach and Awareness Specialist	0.00
Training Specialist	0.00
Health Care Professional (includes PT, OT, SLP)	0.00
Accessibility Expert	0.00
Policy Expert	0.00
Technology Expert (Digital Divide, Mobile Tech)	0.00
Program Manager	0.00
Other positions needed to advance public health and prevent, prepare for, and respond to COVid-19 (describe with narrative field required)	0.00

Please describe the activities of the above FTE and how such activities advance public health.

WATAP's new Assistive Technology Support Technician, who was hired in late September 2022, broadly supported WATAP’s device demonstration and lending library and WATAP's technology resources. This position also spearheaded work on some new projects to support independent living, address social isolation, and support the wellbeing of older adults and people with disabilities through the use of assistive technology. The new projects included enhancing WATAP's accessible gaming and smart home technology options, and developing a on-demand 3D printing last report state financing program. The last was launched at the beginning of FY2024.

C. Describe any unique issues with your data in this section (e.g., the reason why you were unable to report the number of individuals served with additional or leveraged funds).

Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 13 2024 14:16:27 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)