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
Licence: CC0 1.0 (public domain) · Adapted from medlineplus.gov
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