Assistive technology refers to any item, piece of equipment, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. There are numerous laws regarding assistive technology including the Americans with Disabilities Act, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, Assistive Technology Act of 1998, and the Hearing Aid Compatibility Act of 1988. Assistive technologies can help those with visual, hearing, physical, and learning disabilities function better, and examples described in the document include readers, enlarged print, hearing aids, vibrating alarms, personal robots, and word processors.