Introduction to Michelle
Michelle is a 60-year-old woman who lives in an apartment in Edina and receives support from a personal care assistant. Michelle’s goal is to complete online coursework so she can pursue becoming a travel agent and eventually return to competitive employment. Her first LLTS visit took place on February 4, 2025, with services continuing through December 4, 2025.
The primary focus of services was to help Michelle identify and obtain an accessible desk and computer setup that would allow her to use technology more independently from her home.
Michelle had not been able to work since COVID due in part to an inaccessible workstation at home. Her previous desk and computer setup made it difficult for her to access her computer, complete online tasks, and pursue education or employment opportunities. Through the Working with AT grant and related supports, Michelle worked with her LLTS therapist over multiple visits to develop a customized workstation that better matched her physical needs and long-term goals.
Michelle’s Disabilities and Needs
Michelle has a diagnosis of Spastic Quadriplegic Cerebral Palsy, which affects her ability to access and use a computer consistently. As her cerebral palsy has progressed, using her computer has become increasingly difficult. She reported that it had become harder for her to use her computer, and she needed a setup that was easier and more accessible.
Michelle’s previous desk was not accessible for her power wheelchair. It was too short and positioned too far away, making it difficult for her to reach her computer, keyboard, mouse, and related equipment. This created barriers to completing schoolwork, pursuing employment, and independently managing computer-based tasks. She also experienced difficulty safely navigating near her previous desk and reported that she had run into it often, which led to injuries.
Michelle’s needs varied from day to day. On some days, her computer setup worked adequately, but on more difficult days she needed greater flexibility. During those times, reaching her keyboard and mouse to type or control the computer was more challenging. Because of this, alternative access methods such as head pointer technology and mouth-control options were explored to help her maintain computer access even when her physical abilities fluctuated.
Assistive Technology Used to Address Challenges
Michelle participated in multiple trials of assistive technology and workstation equipment. These trials included adaptive mice, various styles of keyboards, keyboarding and mouse software programs, mounts, and adjustable-height power desks at office furniture locations in Edina. The purpose of these trials was to determine which equipment would best support her access, safety, comfort, and independence.
As a result of these assessments and trials, Michelle received a customized accessible workstation. This included a custom adjustable-height power desk with an outward-facing cutout, which allowed her to position her power wheelchair more safely and bring her devices closer. The desk helped reduce the need to reach and made it easier for Michelle to access her computer and related devices.
Michelle also received an Apple Mac Mini, two Apple Studio Display monitors, and a dual monitor stand. This equipment was selected in part because Apple accessibility features better supported Michelle’s needs, including features such as a built-in head mouse and Siri. The dual-monitor setup and mounting system helped create a more functional and accessible computer environment.
In addition, Michelle received keyboard and mouse holder stands to position her keyboard and mouse at angles that were easier for her to reach and use. She also trialed several adaptive mouse options, including a trackball mouse, GlassOuse Pro, Mac head pointer accessibility settings, and a QuadStick Singleton. Michelle currently uses Remote Mouse software on her iPad Mini and iPhone, along with an Apple Magic Trackpad, to help operate her computer.
The equipment was funded through a combination of waiver funding and Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services. The desk was acquired through waiver funding, while the computer mount, Apple Mac Mini, Apple Studio Displays, keyboard stand, and mouse stand were funded through Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Additional adaptive mouse trials remain a continuing need.
Conclusion
The assistive technology Michelle received has had a meaningful impact on her independence, safety, and future opportunities. With her new workstation and computer access equipment, Michelle is now planning to begin online coursework, which had been a goal for many years. She is able to complete more computer tasks on her own and requires less support from her PCA and roommate.
Michelle shared that the program was especially helpful because it did more than provide equipment; it also helped set up the equipment in her home and provided hands-on support. This was important because traveling is difficult for her, and previous services had not provided the same level of training or in-home customization. She stated that she now has more opportunities, including future schooling, job placement, and pursuing work of her choice.
Through LLTS services and the Working with AT grant, Michelle received individualized support that helped transform her home office into a more accessible and functional environment. The customized setup supports her goal of completing travel agent coursework, increases her independence with computer-based tasks, reduces reliance on caregivers, and improves her ability to pursue future employment. Without this assistive technology and training, Michelle would remain at risk of continued barriers to education, employment, and independent computer access in her home.