Assistive Devices: How to Get Medical Aids

What Are Assistive Devices?

Assistive devices are products, equipment, or systems that help people with disabilities or functional limitations perform daily activities, maintain independence, and participate fully in life. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2.5 billion people worldwide need at least one assistive product.

Assistive devices, also called assistive technology or medical aids, encompass a wide range of products designed to support people with physical, sensory, cognitive, or communication challenges. These devices can be simple, like a cane or magnifying glass, or highly sophisticated, like a powered wheelchair or cochlear implant. The common thread is that they help compensate for functional limitations and improve quality of life.

The importance of assistive devices extends beyond individual benefit. When people can function more independently, they often require less support from family members and caregivers, can participate more fully in education and employment, and experience improved mental health and social connections. Research consistently shows that appropriate assistive technology leads to better outcomes across multiple life domains.

The WHO has identified a Priority Assistive Products List containing 50 products considered most essential for global health needs. This list includes items ranging from basic products like spectacles and hearing aids to more complex devices like prosthetic limbs and augmentative communication systems. The list serves as a guide for countries developing their assistive technology policies and services.

Who Needs Assistive Devices?

Assistive devices can benefit anyone experiencing functional limitations, regardless of whether those limitations are temporary or permanent, mild or severe. People may need assistive devices due to various conditions including congenital disabilities, injuries, chronic diseases, aging-related changes, or progressive conditions.

Children with disabilities benefit enormously from early access to appropriate assistive technology. Having the right devices during critical developmental periods can support learning, social interaction, and skill development. Many healthcare systems prioritize children's access to assistive technology, often providing devices at reduced or no cost.

Older adults represent a significant proportion of assistive device users. As people age, they may experience changes in vision, hearing, mobility, or cognition that affect daily functioning. Assistive devices can help older adults maintain independence, remain in their homes longer, and continue participating in activities they enjoy.

What Types of Assistive Devices Are Available?

Assistive devices span numerous categories including mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers, canes), hearing devices (hearing aids, cochlear implants), vision aids (magnifiers, screen readers), cognitive support (memory aids, planning tools), communication devices, and home modifications. The specific devices available depend on your healthcare system and individual assessment.

The world of assistive technology is vast and continually evolving. New technologies emerge regularly, offering improved functionality, better comfort, and enhanced user experiences. Understanding the main categories of assistive devices can help you communicate more effectively with healthcare providers about your needs and explore options you might not have considered.

Mobility and Movement Aids

Mobility aids help people move around more easily and safely. This category includes a broad spectrum of devices, from simple walking sticks to sophisticated powered wheelchairs. The choice of mobility aid depends on factors like the nature and severity of mobility limitations, the environments where the device will be used, physical strength and coordination, and personal preferences.

Common mobility aids include walking canes (single-point, quad, and folding varieties), crutches (axillary and forearm types), walkers and rollators (with or without seats and baskets), manual wheelchairs (self-propelled and attendant-propelled), powered wheelchairs (various control options available), mobility scooters, standing frames and gait trainers, and transfer aids (boards, belts, hoists). Each of these has multiple variations designed for different needs and situations.

Hearing Devices

Hearing devices address varying degrees of hearing loss and range from simple amplification to complex implantable systems. Technology in this area has advanced dramatically, with modern devices offering features like wireless connectivity, directional microphones, and sophisticated noise reduction.

Types of hearing devices include behind-the-ear hearing aids, in-the-ear and in-the-canal hearing aids, cochlear implants for severe to profound hearing loss, bone-anchored hearing systems, assistive listening devices (FM systems, loop systems), alerting devices (visual or vibrating alerts for doorbells, alarms), telephone amplifiers and captioned phones, and television listening systems. An audiologist can help determine which type of device is most appropriate for your specific hearing profile.

Vision Aids

Vision aids support people with various levels of visual impairment, from mild difficulties to complete blindness. The goal is to maximize remaining vision or provide alternative ways to access visual information.

Vision aids encompass optical devices (magnifiers, telescopes, prism glasses), electronic magnifiers (handheld and desktop models), screen reading software and magnification software, refreshable braille displays, audio description services, talking devices (watches, scales, thermometers), white canes and orientation aids, guide dogs, and accessible technology (smartphones and computers with accessibility features). Low vision specialists and orientation and mobility instructors can help identify the most beneficial devices for individual needs.

Cognitive Support Devices

Cognitive support devices help people manage memory, organization, time awareness, and other cognitive functions. These aids are valuable for people with intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries, dementia, ADHD, and various developmental conditions.

Cognitive support includes simple memory aids (calendars, lists, reminder notes), electronic reminders and alarms, medication management systems, planning boards and visual schedules, simplified phones and remote controls, GPS tracking and wayfinding devices, apps for organization and task management, and environmental modifications that support orientation. Many people find that a combination of simple and technological solutions works best.

Communication Devices

Communication aids support people who have difficulty speaking, understanding spoken language, or both. These devices range from low-tech picture boards to sophisticated speech-generating systems.

Communication options include communication boards and books, speech-generating devices (also called AAC devices), text-to-speech software, eye-gaze communication systems, switches and alternative access methods, smartphone and tablet communication apps, and amplifiers for weak voice. A speech-language pathologist can assess communication needs and recommend appropriate solutions.

Home and Daily Living Aids

Home aids help people perform daily activities more independently and safely. These modifications and devices address challenges with personal care, household tasks, and safety.

Daily living aids include adjustable beds and mattresses, grab bars and bathroom safety equipment, stairlifts and home elevators, kitchen aids (adapted utensils, jar openers, reachers), dressing aids (button hooks, sock aids, long-handled shoehorns), environmental control systems, pressure-relieving cushions and mattresses, and transfer and positioning equipment. Occupational therapists specialize in identifying practical solutions for daily living challenges.

How Do I Get an Assistive Device?

To get an assistive device, start by contacting your primary care provider or a rehabilitation specialist. A qualified prescriber will assess your needs, recommend appropriate devices, arrange fitting and training, and provide follow-up care. The specific process varies by healthcare system and device type.

The process of obtaining an assistive device involves several steps, beginning with recognizing that you might benefit from assistance and ending with ongoing support and follow-up. Understanding this process can help you navigate the system more effectively and advocate for your needs.

The first step is recognizing that an assistive device might help you. This might come from your own awareness of difficulties with certain activities, observations from family members or caregivers, or recommendations from healthcare providers. It's important to understand that needing an assistive device is not a sign of weakness or failure—it's a practical solution that can improve your life.

Contacting the Right Services

Your starting point depends on the type of device you need and your healthcare system. In most cases, you can begin by contacting your primary care provider, who can refer you to appropriate specialists. You might also contact specialized centers directly, such as audiology clinics for hearing devices, low vision centers for vision aids, wheelchair services for mobility equipment, or rehabilitation clinics for general assessments.

For devices needed in educational settings, schools often have their own assessment and provision processes. For workplace accommodations, vocational rehabilitation services or occupational health providers can assist. Some countries have dedicated assistive technology centers that can evaluate needs across multiple domains and help coordinate services.

The Assessment Process

A qualified prescriber will conduct a thorough assessment of your needs. This evaluation typically includes a review of your medical history and current diagnoses, assessment of your functional abilities and limitations, discussion of your daily activities and challenges, evaluation of your home and community environments, consideration of your personal goals and preferences, and trial of potential devices when possible.

The prescriber might be an occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech-language pathologist, audiologist, optometrist, rehabilitation physician, or other specialist depending on the type of device you need. Their expertise ensures that recommendations are appropriate for your specific situation.

Good assessments take time and involve active collaboration between you and the prescriber. Come prepared to discuss what activities you find difficult, when and where you experience challenges, what you've already tried, what your goals are, and any concerns or preferences you have. The more information you share, the better the prescriber can understand your needs.

Trying and Fitting Devices

Once the prescriber has assessed your needs, they will recommend one or more devices. In most cases, you'll have the opportunity to try devices before committing to them. This trial period is crucial for ensuring that the device truly meets your needs and is something you'll actually use.

During the fitting process, the prescriber will adjust the device for your body and needs, demonstrate how to use and care for the device, teach you how to troubleshoot common problems, explain any safety considerations, and answer your questions. Don't hesitate to speak up if something doesn't feel right or if you have concerns.

What Does It Cost to Get an Assistive Device?

The cost of assistive devices varies dramatically depending on your country, healthcare system, insurance coverage, and the specific device needed. Many countries provide essential assistive devices through public healthcare or social services, often with co-payments or income-based fees. Private insurance may cover certain devices, and some people purchase devices independently.

Understanding the financial aspects of assistive devices can be complex, as funding mechanisms vary significantly worldwide. However, cost should not prevent you from exploring options—there are often more resources available than people realize.

Public Healthcare Coverage

Many countries include assistive devices in their public healthcare systems. Coverage might be through national health services, social insurance systems, or disability services. The specific devices covered, eligibility criteria, and cost-sharing arrangements differ by country and sometimes by region within countries.

Public systems often have lists of approved devices from which prescribers can choose. These lists are based on evidence of effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and alignment with population health priorities. If a device on the approved list doesn't meet your needs, there may be processes for requesting exceptions or alternatives.

Insurance Coverage

Private health insurance may cover certain assistive devices, particularly those considered medically necessary. Coverage varies widely between policies. Some common considerations include whether the device is considered durable medical equipment, whether prior authorization is required, what documentation is needed, whether there are annual or lifetime limits, and whether rental or purchase options are covered.

Review your insurance policy carefully or contact your insurer to understand your coverage. Your healthcare provider's administrative staff may be able to help with insurance questions and paperwork.

Other Funding Sources

Beyond healthcare and insurance, other funding sources may be available depending on your circumstances. These might include disability benefits or allowances, vocational rehabilitation programs (for work-related needs), educational funding (for school-related devices), charitable organizations and foundations, equipment loan programs, crowdfunding, and tax deductions or credits for medical expenses.

Social workers, patient navigators, or assistive technology specialists can often help identify funding options you might not know about.

Costs for Maintenance and Repairs

When considering the cost of an assistive device, remember to factor in ongoing expenses. Depending on your arrangement, you may be responsible for batteries and consumables, regular maintenance and servicing, repairs after warranty periods, accessories and modifications, and replacement when devices wear out. Some funding programs cover these ongoing costs, while others only cover the initial device. Clarify what's included when you receive your device.

What Are Your Rights Regarding Assistive Devices?

You have the right to participate in decisions about your assistive devices, receive adequate information, access appropriate training, and have your needs reviewed over time. Specific rights vary by country, but international frameworks like the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities establish principles that many nations follow.

Understanding your rights can help you be an effective self-advocate and ensure you receive appropriate services. While specific legal protections vary by country, certain principles are widely recognized in international agreements and best practice guidelines.

Participation in Decision-Making

You have the right to be actively involved in decisions about your assistive devices. This means receiving information about available options in understandable formats, having your preferences and concerns considered, participating in the selection of specific devices, and being able to express dissatisfaction and request alternatives.

For children, the child's views should be considered according to their age and maturity, with parents or guardians participating in decisions on behalf of younger children. Adults with cognitive disabilities may have supporters or legal representatives involved in decision-making, but their own preferences should still be sought and respected to the extent possible.

Access to Information

You have the right to receive information about your options, the assessment process, and how to use and care for your device. This information should be provided in formats and languages you can understand. If you need interpreter services or alternative formats, these should be made available.

Training and Support

Receiving an assistive device should include training on how to use it effectively. The amount of training depends on the complexity of the device, but you should feel confident in your ability to use the device before the provision process is considered complete. You also have the right to follow-up support and to contact your provider if problems arise.

Review and Updates

Your needs may change over time, and you have the right to have your assistive devices reviewed periodically. This is especially important for children, whose needs change as they grow, and for people with progressive conditions. If your current device no longer meets your needs, you can request a new assessment.

Complaints and Appeals

If you're not satisfied with the service you've received or with decisions about your assistive devices, you have the right to complain and, in many systems, to appeal decisions. Patient advocacy services or disability rights organizations can help if you need support navigating complaints processes.

What Happens After I Receive My Device?

After receiving an assistive device, you'll use it in your daily life while maintaining it properly and attending follow-up appointments. If the device no longer meets your needs, you can request a new assessment. Devices obtained through loan or rental programs typically need to be returned when no longer needed.

Receiving an assistive device isn't the end of the process—it's the beginning of integrating the device into your daily life. Success with assistive technology often depends on what happens after the initial provision.

Using Your Device

It takes time to adjust to a new assistive device. Don't be discouraged if things feel awkward at first. Give yourself time to practice, start using the device in familiar environments before challenging ones, and gradually increase the duration and complexity of use as you become more comfortable.

If you're struggling with your device, contact your prescriber. Sometimes minor adjustments or additional training can make a significant difference. It's much better to seek help than to abandon a device that could benefit you.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance extends the life of your device and ensures it functions safely. Follow the care instructions provided with your device, which typically include regular cleaning, proper storage, battery management for powered devices, and periodic professional servicing. Report any damage or malfunction promptly.

Follow-Up Care

Your prescriber should schedule follow-up appointments to check that the device continues to meet your needs. These appointments are opportunities to address any problems, make adjustments, receive additional training, and discuss whether your needs have changed.

Changes in Needs

If your needs change—whether due to changes in your condition, your environment, or your activities—contact your provider to discuss whether modifications to your current device or a new device might be beneficial. Don't wait for scheduled follow-up if you're experiencing significant difficulties.

Returning Devices

If you received your device through a loan or rental program, you'll typically need to return it when you no longer need it—whether because your condition has improved, you've received a replacement, or other circumstances. Returning devices allows them to be refurbished and provided to other people who need them. Contact your provider for instructions on how to return devices properly.

What Should I Do If I'm Not Satisfied?

If you're not satisfied with your assistive device, contact your prescriber to discuss your concerns. The device may need adjustment, you may need additional training, or a different device might be more appropriate. You have the right to participate in decisions about your care and to request a second opinion if needed.

It's not uncommon for people to experience challenges with assistive devices. The key is to address problems rather than abandoning devices that could help you if properly fitted or used.

Common Problems and Solutions

Many issues with assistive devices can be resolved with adjustments or additional training. The device may need physical adjustment for better fit or comfort, you may need more practice or different techniques for using the device, environmental modifications might make the device work better, or accessories or modifications might address specific issues.

When the Device Isn't Right

Sometimes despite best efforts, a particular device just isn't the right solution. If you've worked with your prescriber to address problems without success, discuss whether a different device might be more appropriate. A new assessment may be warranted, especially if significant time has passed since your original evaluation.

Changing Prescribers

If you're not satisfied with the service you're receiving from a particular prescriber, you can request to see someone else. This might be necessary if you feel your concerns aren't being heard, you have concerns about the quality of care, or the working relationship isn't productive.

Formal Complaints

If informal resolution isn't working, you may need to make a formal complaint. This typically involves contacting a patient relations or complaints department within the healthcare organization, disability ombudsman services, or relevant regulatory bodies for specific professions. Document your concerns, what you've already tried, and what outcome you're seeking. Patient advocacy organizations can often provide support through complaints processes.

What About Assistive Devices for Children?

Children can and should receive assistive devices appropriate for their developmental needs. Many healthcare systems prioritize children's access to assistive technology, often providing devices at reduced or no cost. Children's needs change as they grow, requiring regular reassessment and device updates.

Providing children with appropriate assistive technology during critical developmental periods can have profound benefits for their learning, social development, and long-term outcomes. Early intervention is particularly important for children with disabilities.

The Importance of Early Access

Children develop rapidly, and having appropriate supports during key developmental windows can make a lasting difference. A child with a hearing impairment who receives hearing aids early will have better language development than one who waits. A child with mobility limitations who has appropriate equipment can participate in activities with peers, supporting social development.

Child-Appropriate Devices

Assistive devices for children need to be sized appropriately and designed with children's needs in mind. This often means devices that can grow with the child or be easily replaced as the child grows, are durable enough to withstand active use, come in child-friendly colors or designs, are safe for use by children, and consider the child's developmental stage.

Children's Participation

Children should be involved in decisions about their assistive devices to the extent appropriate for their age and understanding. Even young children can express preferences about color or style, and involving children helps ensure they'll actually use their devices. As children get older, their participation in decision-making should increase.

School and Education

In addition to assistive devices for daily living, children may need devices specifically for educational settings. Many countries have separate processes for providing educational technology through schools. This might include specialized software, communication devices, modified furniture, or other supports needed for learning.

Transition to Adult Services

As children with disabilities approach adulthood, there's often a transition from pediatric to adult services. This transition should be planned in advance, with coordination between children's and adult services to ensure continuity of care and equipment provision.