JSDD: Life | Home | Tech

Powering Independence Through Technology

JSDD: Life | Home | Tech (LHT) uses technology solutions to support individuals in achieving goals and optimizing daily routines. This allows for a greater level of independence and an improved quality of life.

Using a person-centered approach with a focus on the specific needs and wants of each individual, this technology is being integrated into residential settings.

JSDD is working with the broader community to educate and inform the public about the growing uses of technology in pioneering possibilities for self-sufficiency and joyful living.

Serving People with Autism · IDD · Aging in Place

Webinars

Join us for one or all of these free remote learning sessions.

Presenter: Barbra Seltzer, M.S., CCC-SLP, ATP
Barbra Seltzer is a Speech/Language Pathologist with more than 30 years of experience working with children and adults with complex communication needs.

Join us! This webinar will provide an overview of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and how to access services through your DDD budget.

Barbra Seltzer has worked in a variety of settings including hospitals, private practice, special needs schools, early intervention, adult day programs, and home-based therapy.

Currently, Barbra works in private practice providing AAC Evaluations and Therapy to children and adults in Northern New Jersey. Barbra has a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech/Language and Hearing Association, a New Jersey license to practice Speech/Language Pathology and Certification by the New Jersey Department of Education as a Speech/Language Specialist. She serves as Chair of the AAC Committee and is a member of the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Speech/Language and Hearing Association. Barbra is also a member of the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America and is certified as an Assistive Technology Professional. Barbra believes that all people have a right to be heard, understood, and respected.

Topics will include:

- What is AAC?

- Who is a candidate for AAC?

- Common myths about AAC.

- What does an AAC Evaluation consist of and who can conduct one?

- What follow up is necessary after receiving an AAC System?

- Funding AAC services and equipment.

RSVP Here

RSVP Today!

Fill out the form below to register and receive the zoom link for the webinar/s of your choice.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Previous Webinars

Presenter: Kerri Morse, Ed.D., Morse Consulting Group

Join our educational webinar, "Building Independence through Task Prompting and Social Supports (iPad and Apps)," where we'll explore the power of iPads and various apps in fostering independence. Discover how to create effective Task Analyses, Checklists, Schedules, and Social Stories using technology. We'll shine a spotlight on innovative tools like QR codes and the Choice Works app to enhance skill development.

Throughout the presentation, we'll emphasize the significance of a person-centered approach to technology, ensuring a tailored and empowering learning experience.

Don't miss this opportunity to unlock new possibilities for independence using iPads and apps. Register now to be part of this transformative discussion.

Presenter: Emily Anderson, SimplyHome Enabling Technology Specialist, Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS), SHIFT Accredited- ETIS

Join us for our exciting webinar, "Building Independence with Routines and Drop-in Supports (Amazon Echo Show)," where we'll delve into the capabilities of the Amazon Echo. Discover the versatility of the Echo Show device, focusing on its communication features, including Drop-ins and Video Calling, exploring the difference between calling out from the device and calling the device.

Learn how to harness the power of Alexa routines to gain essential skills and receive support with your daily living routines, including using Alexa for environmental controls. We'll also cover the importance of privacy.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn more about this enabling technology and how it can enhance daily independent living routines. Register now to embark on this educational journey with us.

Presenter: Meghan O’Sullivan RN, MSN At Home Technologies LLC, Managing Member

Enabling technology expert, Meghan O’ Sullivan will review the basics of this growing resource, show real-life examples of how it's used, and explore the ethics of using technology. This workshop will guide participants in crafting a plan for a smooth transition to greater independence using technology; giving individuals, caregivers and support networks the knowledge they need to grow independence through the use of enabling technology.

This initial workshop will provide an overview of the four devices that JSDD is exploring in the series (Medready, Ring Doorbell, Amazon Echo, iPad), while delving deeper into medication assistance. Meghan will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of available options from simple alarms to devices like the Medready.

Presenter: Emily Anderson, SimplyHome Enabling Technology Specialist, Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS), SHIFT Accredited- ETIS

Join our informative webinar, "Building Independence and Safety at Home with the Ring Video Doorbell." In this session, we'll introduce you to the Ring Video Doorbell, providing a comprehensive overview of its functionality and ease of use. Learn how the Ring app can be used on a smartphone or tablet to enable the self-advocate and their family to receive notifications from the Ring Video Doorbell. Learn about customizable features to suit individual needs and create teachable opportunities surrounding addressing visitors to the home. We'll provide you with an overview of the setup process, including device installation and the use of Ring accessories for enhanced support.

Additionally, we'll showcase the valuable benefit of integrating an Echo Show smart speaker for hands-free communication and safer interactions with visitors.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn how the Ring Video Doorbell can empower you to create a safer and more independent living environment. Register now to gain valuable insights and take the first step towards enhanced home security and independence.

Visit our YouTube

Watch More

This project is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $760,000 with 100 percent funding by ACL/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

Make a difference in the lives of men and women with developmental disabilities by supporting JSDD through your tax-deductible donation.

Without the help of these institutions and organizations, JSDD could not provide the support and services over the last three decades.

Read More

JSDD Instagram

Donate today to support JSDD

Join JSDD in building full and rich lives for adults with IDD today and long into the future!

Who we are

At JSDD, the expectations for quality extend beyond what services and supports may be available to what life fulfilling experiences are possible. Our philosophy supports the notion that there are no limits to those possibilities. We have developed opportunities over time through a dynamic process of establishing relationships with the agency’s residents and WAE Center members. Unexplored interests, ideas, prospects for learning, continuing education and creativity are constantly evolving and emerge as our remarkable staff and the people we support get to know each other and share experiences.

What we do

Ability is the focus of all efforts in supporting the men and women we serve. We are delighted and inspired each and every day by the insights, revelations and creative energy that emerges when respectful relationships for the gifts and talent of every individual are considered. Learning and creativity occur organically as people share themselves and develop friendships and help each other to grow.