In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up and pair the ThirdReality Door Sensor using an Amazon Echo device and the Alexa app. Whether you’re new to smart home technology or supporting someone who is, this step-by-step guide is here to help. Plus, we’ve included a YouTube video tutorial for extra visual…
Section 1: Unboxing & Setting Up Amazon Echo Access full video instructions via the Ability Tools YouTube channel. “Setting Up Amazon Echo” Overview of the Amazon Echo (4th Gen): The Amazon Echo is a smart home device that works like a helpful assistant. It responds to your voice and can assist with tasks like making…
There’s more to workplace success than just having the right tech. With the right funding, training, and self-advocacy tools, powerful support is within reach; you just need to know where to find it. Assistive technology (AT) can open doors, but real success comes with the right support. Across California, programs exist to fund, train, and…
If you made it to Abilities Expo 2025 and stopped by the Ability Tools booth, you couldn’t miss the top-secret, spy-themed experience! Our team went all out to engage attendees of all ages, making sure everyone got a mission briefing on the latest and greatest in assistive technology (AT). The Expo was packed with incredible…
If you are a student with a disability who needs specialized educational services, have completed high school and are moving into post-secondary education, you are no longer eligible for an Individualized Education Plan or IEP and must take steps to self-advocate to get the support you are entitled to. *Post-secondary education is ANY educational instruction…
If you are a student with a disability who needs specialized educational services, are under the age of 22 and have not yet graduated from high school with a typical diploma, you are eligible for an Individualized Education Plan or IEP. You can request Assistive Technology (AT) or AT assessments through your IEP. Eligibility will…
The upcoming California State Gubernatorial Recall Election is a special election to decide: Should the Governor of the State of California, Gavin Newsom, be recalled? If so, who should replace him? Because this is an off-cycle special election, most ballots will simply have the recall question and a list of 46 candidates. (Some counties may also choose to add additional local contests, however.) And…
When Emanuel needed a replacement for his wheelchair, and his insurance wasn’t addressing the urgency of needing an immediate replacement for his mobility device, he turned to getting a loan as his only option to obtain a wheelchair. This is how he connected with the network of California’s Advocates serving people’s needs for Assistive Technology…
The Ability Tools team at the California Foundation for Independent Living (CFILC) opted to let our assistive technology (AT) advocates and the general public vote online for a new blog name. With over 50% of the votes, Where It’s AT won! When you think of an assistive technology (AT) blog – Ability Tools is Where…
By Alexa McBride The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed on July 26th, 1990. The bill was signed by then President George W. Bush. The ADA gave millions of Americans who have disabilities access to public places, transportation, education, employment and housing. I recently learned that President Bush had a sister-in-law with a disability.…