The phrase "assistive goods and related systems and services produced for people to maintain or improve functionality and consequently promote well-being" is used to describe assistive technology (AT). It enables persons with disabilities to live autonomous, healthy, and fruitful lives and to engage in social, occupational, and educational activities. The load on caregivers and the requirement for formal health and support services are reduced by AT. Without AT, disabled individuals are frequently trapped in a cycle of poverty, loneliness, and marginalization, which worsens disability and morbidity.
Assistive technology is essential for the one billion individuals who require it to live happy, productive lives. Although AT can be utilized at any age, the needs of the elderly, those with chronic illnesses, and those who are disabled are the greatest. One in ten people who live with a disability are youngster. The demand for AT will increase as the global population ages and the prevalence of non-communicable diseases rises. To engage in family, community, and educational life, those who need AT must have access to it. Due to concerns with pricing, availability, and acceptability, accessing AT can be challenging in low-resource nations.
Any device, piece of machinery, or item used to preserve, enhance, or expand a person with a disability's functional ability is considered an assistive technology. It is possible to create, modify, or buy assistive goods. Canes are an example of a simple, low-tech assistive device. More complex, high-tech assistive gadgets are also available (e.g., motorized wheelchairs, and speech-generated devices on computers).
It is helpful to categorize assistive devices because there are many distinct types of them. Certain goods will fall under more than one category.
1. Mobility Devices
v Assist with: mobility
v Devices: crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, ramps, and grab bars
2. Seeing / Vision Products
v Assist with: low vision or blindness range
v Devices: reading glasses, magnifiers, audio players, talking and/or touching watches/books, braille systems
3. Hearing Products:
v Assist with hearing loss and communication
v Devices include: hearing aids and alarm signalers that use light, sound, and vibration
4. Communication Products:
v Assist with: augmentative and alternative communication
v Devices include: communication boards, books, and cards
5. Cognition Products
v Assist with cognition
v Devices: pill organizers and whiteboards to remember things
6. Self-care and Environment Products
v Assist: people with physical impairments who have difficulty with functional activities
v Devices: toilet and shower chairs, absorbent cloths