Types of Assistive Technology that are Frequently Used

MedTech Outlook | Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Assistive technology is a broad phrase that refers to any piece of technology that enables a person to execute a task they would typically struggle with and increases the safety and ease of performing specific chores.

FREMONT, CA: Assistive devices range in complexity from simple, low-tech devices (such as walking sticks or modified cups) to complex, high-tech devices (such as specialized computer software/hardware or motorized wheelchairs). It is beneficial to categorize the large array of assistive devices available.

Mobility Devices: Mobility aids, portable ramps, and grab bars are all examples of gadgets that assist persons with walking or moving.

Seeing/Vision Products: Low vision or blindness significantly influences a person's capacity to do critical life tasks. To maximize participation and independence, a variety of devices (from simple to complex) can be used, including reading glasses, magnifiers, audio players, talking or touching watches, white canes, braille systems for reading and writing audio devices, such as radios, talking books, and mobile phones screen readers for computers, such as The JAWS (Job Access with Speech) application is a screen reader.

Hearing Products: Hearing loss impairs an individual's capacity to communicate and engage with others; it can influence numerous aspects of development, including speech and language, and limits educational and employment options, resulting in social prejudice and isolation. Hearing aids and alarm signalers that utilize light, sound, and vibration are devices.

Communication Products: Individuals who have trouble comprehending and producing speech can benefit from augmentative and alternative communication devices. Devices include bulletin boards, books, and playing cards. They are used to supplement speech (augmentative) or to compensate for speech (compensatory) (alternative).

Products of Cognition: Cognition (including memory) is the capacity for comprehending and processing information. It is a term that refers to the brain's mental activities such as memory, planning, and problem-solving. Numerous illnesses, including brain injury, intellectual impairment, dementia, and mental illness, can decrease an individual's cognitive abilities. Individuals can use the following cognitive gadgets to help them recall significant tasks/events, manage their time, and prepare for activities: pill organizers and whiteboards to keep track of things.

Self-care and Environmental Products: Individuals with physical disabilities frequently struggle to maintain proper sleeping, standing, or sitting positions during functional activities and are at risk of developing deformities due to improper placement. The following gadgets can assist those with disabilities in overcoming some of these obstacles and completing daily life activities (e.g., eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, home maintenance). These gadgets come in a variety of forms, including toilet and shower seats, as well as absorbent cloths.