What distinguishes follow-up activities from follow-along activities?

In the context of assistive technology (AT) services, follow-up activities involve assessing how well the technology is meeting the user's needs soon after installation, often within a short time frame. This immediate assessment helps to identify any necessary adjustments to ensure the device is being used effectively and meets the user's requirements.

In contrast, follow-along activities refer to ongoing support and monitoring that occurs after the initial follow-up period. These activities are designed to provide continuous support and may involve further evaluations, training sessions, or adaptations as the user's requirements change over time.

Therefore, the key distinction is the timing—follow-up takes place right after the AT is installed to address immediate concerns, while follow-along is structured as a longer-term ongoing process to ensure continued success with the technology. Understanding this difference is crucial for professionals in the field, as it informs how they structure their support and maintain effective communication with clients regarding their assistive technology needs.