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92 HANDBOOK OF ELECTRONIC ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

allows the team to have data they can review when looking at outcomes or changes in the
needs of the client.
There are some important elements to consider when arranging the clinic:
1� Local teams/support: Invite key people who will support the user in the use of any AT
you recommend. This ensures that they are involved in the process and able to offer
support. In addition, their experience and knowledge can support the assessment process
identifying where issues may arise in the use of the technology in other environments.
2� Location: Determine where it might be best to hold the assessment e.g., home,
school, nursing home, care home and etc. The location will show you the
environment and highlight issues which may impact the provision. It might be
that you need access to workshop facilities to solve the issues listed in the referral
form and so the AT centre might be the best location. Ultimately though, the
client needs to be able to access the venue and not too tired to participate in the
assessment process when they arrive.

Once in the clinic there are some key actions:
1� Communication: Check you understand how your client will communicate with you.
Ask what consistent yes and no looks like or how they will tell you they are happy or
uncomfortable with what is happening. Remember to phrase questions so that you
include the client. Some centres have resources in the clinic room such as alphabet
charts, Talking Mats or other simple symbol systems when asking about pain,
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feelings, opinions, etc. (Murphy et al., 2007).
2� Expectations: Ask the client and carers what they are hoping to get out of this
assessment. In this way you can ensure that you understand what their expectations
are at the outset and can let them know which aspects you can help with. What they
are expecting may not be what the referral details but will give you a chance to focus
on the needs expressed and signpost them to other services or options if not covered
by your service (holistic approach).
3� Views: In the assessment make sure everyone has had an opportunity to say what they
think and all views are considered, realising sometimes the outcome will be a compromise.
4� Summarise: Make sure in any summary of the assessment or report there is clarity
in the actions of who does what and offer further contact if things do not work out as
expected.

In providing AT we are looking to determine:
• An appropriate solution for the client for a given activity.
• The right access method for the person relevant to the activity.
• The appropriate interface presenting the choices to that person for the activity using
the right method of access.

9 https://www.talkingmats.com/.