Editorial Review
Assistive technology is transforming the lives of persons with disabilities. After setting the historical and social background for this transformation, Dr. Scherer discusses the implications of assistive technology in these persons' lives.
The two groups of people she introduces demonstrate differing needs and concerns. Some were disabled through accidents (spinal cord injuries) as young adults; they have had to come to terms with their loss of function and the resulting changes in their life plans. Others were born with disabilities (cerebral palsy) and grew up adjusting to their limitations.
Assistive technology has radically changed their lives, enabling them to work and perform in ways they might never have dreamed possible for themselves. But while these devices do improve the physical capabilities of persons with disabilities, this functional gain is not synonymous with enhanced quality of life. The larger questions are too often ignored: What does the individual define as "rehabilitation success"? Within that person-centered context, how does a given device contribute to fulfilling that person's needs? And are environmental factors -from psychological resistance to insufficient training for use -compromising the effectiveness of the device?
The personal and psychological factors must be better understood by professionals, educators, employers, parents, and most importantly, the persons with disabilities themselves. While Dr. Scherer agrees with the importance of assistive devices, she seeks long-overdue attention for these human dimensions. She stresses the need to help persons with disabilities relate these devices to their own lives and understand their potential utility, the ways they may enhance their lives, and how to integrate them into their everyday functioning.
Forewords by Tom Harkin, U.S. Senate; Frank Bowe, Hofstra University; and Peter Axelson, Santa Cruz.
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Customer Reviews
A "must read" for those who serve persons with disabilities! 
2000-04-17
In simple, easy to read, language Marcia Scherer begins to discuss the impact of disability in our lives. Brought forward with case studies which allow the reader to understand the commonality among us all, Marcia shows us how little day to day changes can broaden range of options and posssibilities for independence, and specifically those with disabilties. We as readers are given a thumbnail sketch of people who utilize assistive technology everyday, some on a grand level such as modified housing and vehicles, and some as simple as a block under a desk leg. In each case we are afforded a glimpse at moving towards being unstuck. Clearly a "must read" for those who work with persons who are disabled, perhaps even for persons beginning their own journeys into becoming unstuck.
Getting "Unstuck" Together 2004-08-11
As an occupational therapist working in the school system, and currently providing assistive technology evaluation, education, and training, I found Living in a State of Stuck to be one of the most influential works I have read in a good number of years. We all have stories, and the individuals that Dr. Scherer has listened to and followed in her book have voices that resonate. I have practiced for nearly 30 years, and her approach feels like coming home to the core principles of the profession I have love. Thank you, Dr. Scherer, and please keep writing.
Thumbs-Up to Dr. Scherer 2000-04-25
As a rehabilitation professional and an individual with a severe mobility impairment, I found Dr. Scherer's book to be most enlightening. To tell you the truth, I was expecting another dry textbook bogged down with a lot of technical terms and professional jargon. Instead, I was pleasantly surprised to read interesting stories about flesh and blood individuals, and the impact their disabilities and the use of assistive technology have had on their lives. It's one thing to read about all the wonderful things assistive technology can provide - it's quite another to read real life examples of its implementation.
I can relate to the author's belief that the technology is only as good as it is perceived to be by the individual that is using the technology, and that a holistic approach to matching the appropriate technology is essential. As Dr. Scherer points out, it doesn't matter how marvelous we as professionals' think the technology is. If it doesn't meet the need of the individual, it is virtually useless. To illustrate the author's point, I can't count the number of times a rehab professional has told me I should do this, or I should use that, or I should do it this way or that way, etc., without ever bothering to ask for my opinion or ideas. However, I have recently had my bilateral long leg braces refurbished, and (per Dr. Scherer's model), I essentially told the orthotist how I wanted it done. The end result - the braces are much more comfortable to wear and skin breakdown at the various pressure points has decreased dramatically!
Scherer shines light on the world of disabilities 
2000-04-21
In working with people with disabilities I found Scherer's book gave a different slant on their issues and the use of technology. It was easy reading and informative. The case studies gave examples of the various needs, likes and dislikes and preferences of people with disabilites and their uses of assistive technology. Probably the most important emphasis of Scherer's book is know your consumer and listen. There is no universal recommendation for assistive tech for our consumers.
For People With All Types of Abilities 2000-04-18
This book was very insightful and well researched. It includes numerous individuals with disabilities and describes using Assistive Technology in real life situations. It highlights that all persons with the same disability do not use the same Assistive Technology and that above all else, the individual's needs, desires and goals should be considered before the purchase of Assistive Technology. In addition, it also points out that people with an acquired disability may feel differently about Assistive Technology than a person born with a disability. Overall, an excellent read!
Living in the State of stuck 2000-04-18
Living in the State of Stuck teaches us how to look at assistive technology in a "big picture" perspective. The book discusses tailoring adaptations to particular needs, and how to practically apply adaptations to every day lives. Many people are afraid to use assistive technologies themselves, but expect people with disabilities to embrace adaptations. Scherer talks about matching people with technologies, not because they are a quick fix, and easily accessible, but because that person is genuinely interested in attaining and using the device which THEY have informatively chosen. Scherer uses practical information are stories about people of all ages and disabilities successfully using the latest technologies. She provides online resources, organizations, vendors and a worksheet to assist with matching persons with technologies.
