Patient Education
Heart Health Library
Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Assistive Devices for People With Disabilities
Overview
Assistive devices are tools that help make your daily activities easier. You may also hear them called adaptive equipment.
These tools can help you with many activities, like bathing, grooming, dressing, walking, writing, or eating. They can be simple or complex. They range from a fork with an extra-large handle to a power wheelchair.
Occupational therapists and physical therapists are trained to help you learn what assistive devices can help you. They can also tell you where you can find them. In general, you can find these tools in drugstores, medical supply stores, or online. Some can be found in home improvement stores.
What are some examples of assistive devices?
Tools for grooming and dressing
Examples include:
- Tub or shower grab bars. They can help you get in and out of the bathtub.
- Tools to help you get dressed. These include button or zipper hooks, shoehorns, and sock aids.
- Toothbrushes, combs, and brushes that have big handles. They are easier to hold.
- Long-handled sponges for bathing.
- Velcro fasteners on clothes and shoes instead of small buttons, snaps, or laces.
- Large pull tabs on zippers. These make zippers easier to hold and pull.
Tools for daily tasks
These tools include:
- Stools, carts, trash cans, and other objects on wheels so they can be pushed rather than carried or lifted.
- Doorknob extenders. They help you open doors without twisting the doorknob.
- Molded or padded handles. They can make objects like keys, kitchen gadgets, combs, mirrors, and toothbrushes easier to hold.
- Reaching or grabbing tools. You can use them to help you pick up items from the floor or from a high shelf.
- Writing and reading tools, such as grips on pens or a magnifying glass to help you read.
Tools for moving around
Examples include:
- Movement devices, such as canes, braces, walkers, and electric scooters. Wheelchairs can also help you be mobile.
- Raised toilet seats, with or without rails to help you sit and stand. They can make it safer and easier to use the toilet.
- Special lifts that can help you get in and out of your bed, car, or bathtub.
Current as of: July 31, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content.
To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.
© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.
Browse our library of medical conditions and treatments
A body map to help you find and learn more about your symptoms.
Learn more about your diagnostic exam.
Get important information regarding your medications
Tips on how to stay healthy