New Appalachian Center for Assistive Technology expands services in Eastern Kentucky
A new center in Morehead is helping Kentuckians live more independently through assistive technology, equipment and training.
The University of Kentucky College of Health Sciences and UK St. Claire have partnered to open a second location for the Appalachian Center for Assistive Technology (ACAT), located at 336 Pinecrest Drive. Community leaders, elected officials, University of Kentucky representatives, partners and staff celebrated the opening of the new center June 25 in a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
ACAT helps individuals overcome challenges related to mobility, communication and daily living. Services include assistive technology demonstrations and consultations, a short-term assistive technology loan program, maker space services, workforce training opportunities and equipment refurbishing.
“By bringing these services to Morehead, we are connecting individuals and families with the support they need closer to home,” said Donald H. Lloyd II, president and CEO of UK St. Claire. “This center is another example of our commitment to advancing health, improving quality of life and strengthening the communities we serve.”
The first ACAT facility opened in Hazard in 2022. The new Morehead location builds on the center’s work in Hazard and allows more families to receive services.
Through assistive technology, ACAT can help people overcome everyday challenges — from helping a child participate more fully in school to supporting an adult recovering from an injury or enabling an older adult to remain independent at home.
“This expansion strengthens our ability to meet the needs of more people across the region,” said Patrick Kitzman, Ph.D., director of ACAT and professor in the UK College of Health Sciences. “Together, we are creating new opportunities for collaboration, service and learning.”
“Expanding these services through the opening of a second site is critically important for the people of Eastern Kentucky,” said Karen Badger, Ph.D., vice dean and professor in the UK College of Health Sciences. “This new site complements the services provided by the existing location in Hazard and extends our reach to support more individuals and families across the region.”
Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests toured the facility and viewed demonstrations showing how assistive technology can help people live more independently.