Assistive technology is a term commonly used to refer to adaptive, assistive or rehabilitation products or devices geared towards providing greater independence to those with disabilities or limited abilities. These products can assist people with a variety of things, including communication, mobility, learning, recreation, overcoming or dealing with physical or mental challenges and help with daily life activities. The whole goal of assitive technology is to enhance a person’s quality of life through the use of such devices.
Examples of assistive technology
These are just a few examples of adaptive devices available today. Some are relatively easy to acquire, while others are more difficult to obtain due to availability or cost.
- furniture with lifts, or made for easy standing/sitting
- clothing with Velcro or snaps
- extended bath brushes
- mobility devices like scooters or walkers
- grab bars in bathroom
- hearing devices and amplifiers
- seat lifts
- large button phones
- audio books
- wheelchair ramps and lifts
- special lights on smoke detectors, phones and doorbells
- talking clocks
- motion sensors for lights
- ‘reachers’ to help pick up, or reach up to, items
- easy-grip utensils
For more information
Assistive Technology at ElderCare.gov
Assitive Technology on Wikipedia
AssitiveTech – National Public Website on Assistive Technology
