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Assistive Devices
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Surgery Rehabilitation

Assistive Devices

Assistive devices are specialized tools and equipment designed to help individuals perform daily tasks, improve mobility, and enhance overall independence.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility typically depends on a physician's prescription and a formal evaluation by a certified occupational or physical therapist. Most insurance plans require documentation that the device is medically necessary to improve function or safety. You should ask your provider for a specific medical necessity letter and check your policy's "Durable Medical Equipment" section, as some items like reachers or simple grab bars may be considered non-medical household items and are not covered.
Yes, improper use can lead to falls, muscle strain, or pressure ulcers. For example, using a walker that is too high or too low can alter your gait and cause back or shoulder pain. Wheelchair users must be vigilant about pressure points to prevent bedsores. It is essential to follow the specific instructions provided by your therapist and to have your equipment inspected regularly for wear and tear, such as loose wheels or broken brakes.
The process usually begins with a referral from your primary care doctor to a physical or occupational therapist. The therapist will assess your strength, balance, and home environment to determine the appropriate type and size of device. For wheelchairs, a specialized equipment vendor often performs a detailed measurement and fitting session to ensure proper posture and pressure distribution, which is critical for preventing skin breakdown and pain.
bsolutely. Many people use devices like canes, crutches, or reachers for short-term recovery periods. These temporary aids help protect healing injuries while maintaining independence in daily tasks. Once the injury heals, the device is usually discontinued. However, if you find that you still need the aid after the expected recovery time, you should consult your doctor to evaluate for underlying issues that may require long-term support.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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