Assistive Devices

What are assistive devices?

Assistive devices are tools, products, or equipment that can help you perform tasks and activities. They may help you move around, see, communicate, eat, or get dressed.

Who might benefit from assistive devices?

You may use various assistive devices if you:

• Have a disability or injury
• Have certain health conditions such as dementia, or if you've had a stroke
• Are an older adult

You might use an assistive device for a short time or long term. Others might use them throughout their lifespan.

How can assistive devices help?

Some assistive devices are high-tech tools, such as computers. Others are much simpler, like a "reacher," a tool that helps you grab an object you can't reach.

There are a variety of assistive devices or tools available that may be used to help you to:

• Communicate, see, or hear better
• Perform daily activities
• Move by using a wheelchair, walker, or another mobility device
• Cook or eat
• Dress or groom yourself
• Improve your memory or attention
• Be more active
• Participate in educational activities

Assistive devices may also be used to make changes to your physical environment so it is easier to move or care for yourself. This can include adding ramps or grab bars.

Questions for your care team

General prompts to help prepare for your appointment.

• How does this information apply to my situation?
• Which symptoms or results need evaluation?
• Which tests are useful, and what can they tell us?
• What care options, benefits, and risks should we discuss?
• When should I seek urgent help, and whom should I call?
• When is follow-up, and how will we know whether the plan is working?