Assistive Devices: Tools That Help With Everyday Tasks

Assistive devices are tools, products or equipment that help people carry out tasks and activities: getting around, seeing, communicating, eating or getting dressed.

Who uses them

People may use assistive devices if they:

• have a disability or injury;
• have certain health conditions, such as dementia, or have had a stroke;
• are older adults.

Some people need a device for a short time, some for the long term, and some throughout their lives.

What they can help with

Devices range from high-tech tools such as computers to simple ones like a reacher, which helps grab objects that are out of reach. They can help people:

• communicate, see or hear better;
• carry out daily activities;
• move with a wheelchair, walker or other mobility device;
• cook or eat;
• dress or groom;
• improve memory or attention;
• be more active;
• take part in education.

Changes to the home or other surroundings, such as ramps or grab bars, can also make it easier to move around and care for oneself.

Sources

• MedlinePlus, produced by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, "Assistive Devices": https://medlineplus.gov/assistivedevices.html