Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology refers to products and devices that enable or improve
independent living. Some common examples include:
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Walkers
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Canes
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Manual or motorized wheelchairs
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Grab bars near the toilet, shower, and bathtub
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Shower/bath chairs
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Pillboxes
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Hearing Aids
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Scoop plates and weighted utensils
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Reachers for getting items in hard to reach locations
More sophisticated assistive devices:
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Automatic medication dispensers - some with timers and alarms.
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Environmental Control Units (ECUs) - control lights and fans, a telephone,
or a computer, can be voice-activated.
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Lifts - ceiling-mounted or portable units, such as a Hoyer Lift. Can help to
move the Veteran from a bed to a chair, from room to room, or from bedroom
to shower. Slings help to ensure safety and comfort.
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Ramps - can be constructed as a permanent structure for your home or be a
modular, temporary structure. Ramps make it easier to move the Veteran in
and out of your home. Portable ramps can be stored in your car and used in
places that are not wheelchair accessible.
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Vehicle adaptations - examples include ramps, raised roof, adaptive hand
controls, wheelchair, and scooter lifts.
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Attendant Controls - can be fitted to any power wheelchair. These allow you
to easily guide the Veteran’s wheelchair.
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Electronic Devices - phones, computers that “speak” or enlarge text,
voice-activated devices, personal digital assistants with audible prompts
for tasks/events/activities.
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Work-based Devices - there are many products available to help the Veteran
in the workplace.