ASSISTIVE DEVICE - is any device that helps someone do something that

they might not otherwise be able to do well or at all. 

Types of Assistive Devices 

o Parallel bars- Assist individuals to re-learn to walk and for gait training, as
well as to regain balance, strength, range of motion, and mobility. 

o Feeding utensils- Ergonomically designed, the Adaptive Eating Utensils are

contoured to provide a comfortable fit. Each Fork, Knife and Spoon are
equipped with a large grip handle. 

o Handrails- A handrail is a wall fixture that allows for grip to provide

support and stability. 

It is often a standard feature on a staircase but in the home of a

senior, the positioning of handrails should extend beyond just a
staircase. 

o Commode- A commode is a chair with a built-in toilet chamber and it aids

elderly and disabled people in remaining independent and maintains dignity.  

o Wheelchair- A wheelchair is a manually operated or power-driven device

designed primarily for use by an individual with a mobility disability for the
main purpose of indoor, or of both indoor and outdoor, locomotion. 

o a means of locomotion for non-ambulatory individuals, consisting of a seat on

a platform with wheels, which provides comfortable, safe sitting, and a
steering mechanism. The disabled person should be evaluated by a
physiatrist, physical therapist, or occupational therapist with the assistance
of an equipment specialist in order to choose the right type of wheelchair.
Different types have been designed for patients with quadriplegia,
hemiplegia, paraplegia, and amputations; there are also specialized
wheelchairs designed for sports, such as basketball, tennis, long distance
running, and sprints.

o Walker-is a walking aid with 4 legs with a cross brace or two and handles. A
walker is used by grasping the handles and supporting the weight of the user
while they walk. They are also used to keep the user balanced as they walk.
 Essentially, the main purpose of a walker is to support the elderly person and
reduce the chance of a fall.

o Cane An assistive device prescribed to provide support during

ambulation and transfers for individuals with weakness, instability,
pain, or balance loss. It also may be used to unload a lower extremity
joint or to partially eliminate weight-bearing. Standard (conventional)
canes are made from wood or aluminum and have a variety of hand grip
styles. Other styles include tripod canes, quadruped (quad) canes, and
walk (“hemi”) canes. Canes should be used on the unaffected (stronger)
side of the body.

o Crutches- Crutches are a type of Walking Aids that serve to increase the

size of an individuals Base of support. It transfers weight from the legs to
the upper body and is often used by people who cannot use their legs to
support their weight (ie short-term injuries to lifelong disabilities).