Medical Assistive Devices: How to Get the Right Aid

What Are Medical Assistive Devices?

Medical assistive devices are products, equipment, and systems designed to help people with disabilities, chronic conditions, or age-related limitations maintain or improve their functional abilities and independence. They range from simple walking canes to advanced powered wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetic limbs, and communication devices.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines assistive technology as any product or system that maintains or improves an individual's functioning and independence, thereby promoting well-being. Assistive devices are not limited to people with permanent disabilities — they are equally important for individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions, or experiencing the natural effects of aging.

The scope of assistive devices is remarkably broad. A person with low vision may benefit from magnifying glasses or screen readers. Someone who has undergone a hip replacement may need a raised toilet seat and grab bars during recovery. A child born with hearing loss can develop language skills with the help of hearing aids fitted in the first months of life. In each case, the right device can mean the difference between dependence and self-sufficiency.

According to the WHO Global Report on Assistive Technology (2022), more than 2.5 billion people worldwide currently need at least one assistive product, and this number is projected to rise to 3.5 billion by 2050 due to population aging and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases. Despite this enormous need, access remains critically limited: only about 1 in 10 people who need assistive technology actually have access to it, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

The classification of assistive devices follows the international standard ISO 9999, which organizes products into categories based on their function. This standard is used by healthcare systems worldwide to ensure consistent terminology and facilitate cross-border comparisons of assistive technology provision.

Common Types of Assistive Devices

Assistive devices can be grouped into several broad categories, each addressing different functional needs. Understanding these categories can help you identify what type of support might benefit you or a family member.

• Mobility aids: Wheelchairs (manual and powered), walkers, rollators, crutches, canes, orthotic braces, and prosthetic limbs
• Hearing aids: Behind-the-ear (BTE), in-the-ear (ITE), cochlear implants, bone-anchored hearing systems, and assistive listening devices
• Visual aids: Magnifiers, screen readers, braille displays, white canes, and low-vision optical devices
• Communication aids: Speech-generating devices, symbol boards, eye-tracking communication systems, and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) software
• Daily living aids: Adapted utensils, dressing aids, reaching tools, bath seats, raised toilet seats, and stair lifts
• Cognitive aids: Memory aids, medication reminders, GPS trackers, simplified remote controls, and time management tools

WHO Priority Assistive Products List

The WHO has identified 50 priority assistive products that are considered essential for people with functional limitations. This list serves as a guide for governments and healthcare systems to prioritize the provision of these products. Items on the list include wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetic knees, therapeutic footwear, spectacles, and communication software, among others. The list is regularly reviewed and updated based on global needs assessments and emerging evidence.

Who Needs an Assistive Device?

Anyone with a functional limitation that affects their ability to perform daily activities may benefit from an assistive device. This includes people with physical disabilities, sensory impairments, cognitive challenges, chronic diseases, and age-related conditions. Children, working adults, and elderly individuals may all need assistive technology at different stages of life.

The need for assistive devices is far more common than many people realize. It is not limited to people with severe or permanent disabilities. Many individuals develop temporary or progressive conditions that benefit from assistive technology. For example, a person recovering from a stroke may need mobility aids and communication devices during rehabilitation. Someone with progressive hearing loss may benefit from hearing aids long before they consider themselves to have a "disability."

Aging is the single largest driver of assistive device needs globally. As people age, they commonly experience declining vision, hearing loss, reduced mobility, and cognitive changes. Simple assistive devices such as reading glasses, walking sticks, and hearing aids can allow older adults to remain independent and active in their communities for much longer than would otherwise be possible.

Children represent a particularly important group for early assistive device intervention. A child who receives a hearing aid within the first six months of life can develop language skills at a rate comparable to their hearing peers. Similarly, a child with cerebral palsy who receives an appropriately fitted wheelchair gains not only mobility but also improved opportunities for social participation and education.

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory conditions can all create functional limitations that benefit from assistive devices. Therapeutic footwear for diabetic neuropathy, compression garments for lymphedema, and portable oxygen concentrators for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are all examples of how assistive technology supports chronic disease management.

Conditions That Commonly Require Devices

While virtually any functional limitation can potentially benefit from assistive technology, certain conditions are particularly common reasons for device prescription. These include stroke, spinal cord injury, amputation, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, age-related hearing loss, macular degeneration, traumatic brain injury, and various musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

How Do You Get an Assistive Device?

The process of obtaining an assistive device typically begins with a visit to your primary care doctor or specialist, who can refer you for a professional assessment. An occupational therapist, physiotherapist, audiologist, or other specialist then evaluates your needs, recommends appropriate devices, and arranges fitting and training.

Getting an assistive device is a structured process that involves multiple healthcare professionals working together to ensure you receive the most appropriate solution. While the exact process varies between countries and healthcare systems, the fundamental steps are broadly similar worldwide. Understanding these steps can help you navigate the system more effectively and advocate for your needs.

The process is designed to be patient-centered, meaning your specific functional needs, lifestyle, home environment, and personal goals are all taken into account. A wheelchair that works well for one person may not be suitable for another, even if they have a similar medical condition. This is why individual assessment is so important — it ensures that the device you receive is truly tailored to your unique situation.

It is also important to understand that getting an assistive device is not a one-time event. Your needs may change over time due to changes in your condition, aging, changes in your living situation, or advances in technology. Most healthcare systems allow for reassessment and replacement of devices when your circumstances change.

Step 1: Identify Your Need

The first step is recognizing that you have a functional limitation that could be improved with an assistive device. This might be difficulty walking, trouble hearing in conversations, vision problems that affect your daily activities, or challenges with self-care tasks like bathing or dressing. You may notice these limitations yourself, or they may be identified by a family member, caregiver, or healthcare provider during a routine appointment.

Step 2: Visit Your Healthcare Provider

Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a relevant specialist. Describe your functional limitations in detail — not just the medical condition, but how it specifically affects your ability to perform daily activities. For example, rather than simply saying "my knees hurt," explain that you have difficulty climbing stairs, standing for more than 10 minutes, or walking to the shops. This information helps your doctor determine what type of referral is most appropriate.

Step 3: Specialist Assessment

Based on your doctor's referral, you will be assessed by a specialist in assistive technology. Depending on your needs, this might be an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, audiologist, orthotist, prosthetist, or speech-language pathologist. The assessment typically involves evaluating your physical capabilities, observing how you perform daily activities, discussing your goals and priorities, and assessing your home and work environments.

Step 4: Device Selection and Fitting

Together with your specialist, you will select the most appropriate device from the available options. The specialist will explain the benefits and limitations of different devices and help you choose one that best meets your needs. The device will then be fitted, adjusted, and customized to ensure comfort, safety, and optimal function. You may try several options before finding the best fit.

Step 5: Training

Once your device is fitted, you will receive training on how to use it safely and effectively. This is a crucial step that significantly affects how well the device works for you. Training may include hands-on practice sessions, written instructions, video demonstrations, and guidance for family members or caregivers who may assist you. Do not hesitate to ask questions or request additional training if you feel unsure about any aspect of using your device.

Step 6: Follow-Up and Maintenance

After receiving your device, you should have scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure everything is working properly. During these visits, your specialist will check that the device fits correctly, assess whether it is meeting your needs, and make any necessary adjustments. If your condition or circumstances change, you can request a reassessment at any time.

What Happens During the Assessment?

During an assistive device assessment, a specialist evaluates your physical abilities, daily activity challenges, home environment, and personal goals. The assessment may include physical examinations, functional tests, questionnaires, and trial of different devices to determine which option best meets your needs.

The assessment is the most important step in the process of getting an assistive device, because it determines which device you will receive and how it will be configured for your specific needs. A thorough assessment considers not only your medical condition and physical capabilities, but also your lifestyle, home environment, work requirements, social activities, and personal preferences.

Assessments are conducted by qualified healthcare professionals who specialize in assistive technology. The type of professional depends on the category of device being considered. For mobility devices, you will typically see a physiotherapist or occupational therapist. For hearing aids, an audiologist conducts the assessment. For prosthetic limbs, a prosthetist with specialized training performs the evaluation. For visual aids, an optometrist or ophthalmologist may be involved along with a rehabilitation specialist.

The assessment process usually takes between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on the complexity of your needs. For complex cases involving multiple devices or significant customization, the assessment may take place over several sessions. It is important to be honest and thorough during the assessment — the more information you provide about your challenges and goals, the better the specialist can match you with the right device.

Many assessments also include an evaluation of your home environment. This may involve a home visit or a detailed discussion about the physical layout of your living space, including doorway widths, floor surfaces, bathroom configuration, and stairways. This information is essential for ensuring that a wheelchair, walker, or other mobility device will function properly in your actual living environment.

What to Bring to Your Assessment

To make the most of your assessment appointment, bring any existing medical reports or referral letters, a list of current medications, your current assistive devices (if you have any), comfortable clothing suitable for physical testing, and a written list of your daily challenges and goals. If possible, bring a family member or caregiver who can provide additional insight into your daily functioning.

What Types of Assistive Devices Are Available?

Assistive devices span a wide range from simple daily living aids like reaching tools and adapted utensils to complex technologies such as powered wheelchairs, cochlear implants, and eye-tracking communication systems. The WHO Priority Assistive Products List identifies 50 essential products that governments should aim to make accessible.

The variety of assistive devices available today is greater than at any point in history, and the field continues to evolve rapidly with advances in materials science, electronics, and artificial intelligence. Understanding the major categories of devices can help you and your healthcare provider identify the types of support that may be most beneficial for your specific situation.

It is worth noting that assistive devices range enormously in complexity and cost. Some of the most impactful devices are also among the simplest and least expensive. A well-fitted walking cane, a magnifying glass, or an adapted grip for kitchen utensils can make a profound difference in daily functioning. More complex devices such as powered wheelchairs, cochlear implants, and myoelectric prostheses offer remarkable capabilities but require more specialized assessment, fitting, and training.

Technology is also increasingly blurring the lines between medical devices and consumer products. Smartphones with built-in screen readers, voice assistants that can help with memory and scheduling, and wearable health monitors are all examples of mainstream technologies that function as assistive devices for many people. Some healthcare systems now recognize and even prescribe certain consumer technologies when they meet a patient's functional needs.

Mobility Devices

Mobility devices are among the most commonly prescribed assistive products. They range from simple walking canes and crutches to sophisticated powered wheelchairs with tilt-in-space seating and environmental controls. The choice of mobility device depends on the nature and severity of the mobility limitation, the user's upper body strength and coordination, the environment in which the device will be used, and the user's goals and lifestyle.

Manual wheelchairs come in many configurations, from basic folding models for occasional use to ultralight rigid-frame chairs designed for active daily use. Powered wheelchairs are appropriate for people who lack the upper body strength or endurance to propel a manual chair. Standing wheelchairs allow users to rise to a standing position, which offers both health benefits and improved access to countertops and shelving.

Hearing Devices

Modern hearing aids are remarkably sophisticated digital devices that can be programmed to match a person's specific hearing profile. Behind-the-ear (BTE) hearing aids are the most common type and are suitable for most types of hearing loss. In-the-ear (ITE) and in-the-canal (ITC) devices are more discreet but may not be suitable for severe hearing loss. For people with profound hearing loss who do not benefit sufficiently from hearing aids, cochlear implants may be an option. These surgically placed devices bypass damaged parts of the inner ear and directly stimulate the auditory nerve.

Vision Devices

Visual assistive devices encompass a wide range of products for people with low vision or blindness. Optical devices include magnifying glasses, telescopic spectacles, and closed-circuit television (CCTV) magnifiers. Electronic devices include screen readers, screen magnification software, refreshable braille displays, and optical character recognition (OCR) systems. For orientation and mobility, white canes remain a fundamental tool, increasingly supplemented by GPS navigation apps and electronic obstacle detection devices.

Communication Devices

Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices help people who have difficulty speaking due to conditions such as cerebral palsy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), stroke, or traumatic brain injury. These devices range from simple picture boards and symbol charts to sophisticated speech-generating devices controlled by touch, eye gaze, or head movements. Advances in eye-tracking technology have been particularly transformative for people with severe motor limitations, allowing them to communicate through computer systems operated entirely by eye movements.

How Much Do Assistive Devices Cost?

The cost of assistive devices varies enormously, from a few dollars for simple aids to tens of thousands for advanced powered wheelchairs or cochlear implants. In many countries with universal healthcare, essential devices are provided at no cost or with subsidies. Insurance coverage varies widely depending on country, plan, and device type.

Cost is one of the most significant barriers to accessing assistive technology worldwide. The WHO estimates that the global unmet need for assistive products is driven largely by affordability issues, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where out-of-pocket costs can represent a substantial portion of household income.

In countries with established universal healthcare systems, many essential assistive devices are provided through the public health system at no direct cost to the patient. Countries such as the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Germany, France, and the Scandinavian nations have comprehensive assistive device programs funded through general taxation or social insurance. However, even in these countries, there may be waiting times, limits on the types of devices available, and requirements for medical justification.

In insurance-based healthcare systems, coverage for assistive devices depends on the specific insurance plan. Most plans cover medically necessary devices prescribed by a licensed healthcare provider, but the definition of "medically necessary" and the extent of coverage can vary significantly. Some plans require prior authorization, have annual or lifetime limits, or only cover specific brands or models. It is important to check with your insurance provider before proceeding with a device to understand your coverage and any out-of-pocket costs.

For people without adequate insurance coverage, several alternative funding sources may be available. Government disability programs, veterans' benefits, charitable organizations, community service clubs, and crowdfunding platforms can all provide financial assistance for assistive devices. Some manufacturers offer payment plans or financial assistance programs for their products.

Financial Assistance Options

If you face financial barriers to obtaining an assistive device, explore all available options before assuming the cost is prohibitive. Government disability programs often provide devices at no cost to eligible individuals. Veterans' affairs departments in many countries have robust assistive device programs. Non-profit organizations such as the Lions Club (hearing aids and vision aids), Wheelchair Foundation, and local disability service organizations may provide devices or funding assistance. Many hospitals and rehabilitation centers also have social workers who can help identify funding sources specific to your situation and location.

Can Children Get Assistive Devices?

Yes, children can and should receive assistive devices when needed. Early intervention with appropriate assistive technology is crucial for child development, education, and social participation. Pediatric devices are specially designed for growing children and require regular reassessment as the child develops.

Providing assistive devices to children early in life is one of the most effective interventions available in rehabilitation medicine. Research consistently shows that early access to appropriate assistive technology significantly improves developmental outcomes across multiple domains, including motor skills, communication, cognitive development, and social participation. The earlier a child receives the right device, the better the long-term outcomes.

Pediatric assistive devices differ from adult devices in several important ways. They must accommodate growth, which means they often need to be adjusted or replaced more frequently than adult devices. They need to be designed with safety features appropriate for children. They should support play and exploration, which are essential for child development. And they should be aesthetically acceptable to the child, as a device that a child refuses to use provides no benefit regardless of its technical capabilities.

For infants and very young children, early identification of functional limitations is critical. Universal newborn hearing screening programs, for example, can identify hearing loss within days of birth, allowing for hearing aid fitting within the first few months of life. Similarly, early identification of visual impairments, motor disabilities, and developmental delays allows for timely provision of appropriate assistive devices and therapies.

In most healthcare systems, children receive priority access to assistive devices, and pediatric devices are often fully covered by public health programs or insurance. Schools also play an important role in providing assistive technology for education, including adapted computers, communication devices, and specialized seating systems for the classroom.

What Rights Do You Have Regarding Assistive Devices?

Under the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), you have the right to access assistive technology. This includes the right to participate in device selection, receive training, access maintenance and repairs, appeal decisions about device provision, and request reassessment when your needs change.

Access to assistive technology is increasingly recognized as a fundamental human right, not merely a healthcare service. The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), which has been ratified by over 180 countries, specifically includes provisions on assistive technology. Article 20 addresses personal mobility, including access to mobility aids and assistive devices, while Article 26 covers habilitation and rehabilitation services, including the provision of assistive technology.

Beyond the CRPD, many countries have domestic legislation that protects the right to assistive devices. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the United States, the Equality Act in the United Kingdom, and similar legislation in other countries establish legal frameworks for access to assistive technology in healthcare, education, and employment settings.

In practical terms, your rights regarding assistive devices typically include the right to be referred for assessment when you have a functional limitation, the right to participate in the selection of your device, the right to receive a device that meets your individual needs, the right to adequate training on how to use the device, the right to follow-up care and maintenance, the right to replacement when a device is worn out or no longer meets your needs, and the right to appeal decisions about device provision that you disagree with.

If you believe your rights have been violated — for example, if you have been denied an assistive device that you need, or if the device you received is inadequate for your needs — you typically have the right to file a complaint or appeal through your healthcare system's grievance process. Patient advocacy organizations and disability rights groups can provide guidance and support in navigating these processes.

What Happens After You Receive Your Device?

After receiving your assistive device, you will have follow-up appointments for adjustments and monitoring. Regular maintenance extends the life of your device. If your needs change, you can request reassessment. Most devices have warranties and repair services provided through the same system that supplied the device.

Receiving your assistive device is not the end of the process — it is the beginning of an ongoing relationship with your healthcare team. Follow-up care is essential to ensure that your device continues to meet your needs and functions properly over time. Research shows that devices that are accompanied by proper follow-up and maintenance are used significantly more and provide greater satisfaction than devices provided without ongoing support.

In the first few weeks after receiving a new device, it is normal to experience an adjustment period. A new wheelchair may feel different from what you expected. Hearing aids take time to get used to, as your brain needs to relearn how to process sounds. A new prosthetic limb requires practice to develop confidence and skill. During this period, it is important to use the device as instructed, attend all follow-up appointments, and communicate openly with your specialist about any difficulties you are experiencing.

Regular maintenance is essential for all assistive devices, just as it is for any piece of equipment. Wheelchairs need tire inflation, brake adjustment, and periodic servicing. Hearing aids require battery replacement, cleaning, and professional tuning. Prosthetic limbs need socket adjustments, component checks, and cosmetic repairs. Your specialist or device supplier should provide you with a maintenance schedule and instructions for basic care.

Most healthcare systems have processes for device replacement when a device is worn out, broken beyond repair, or no longer meets the user's needs. Replacement timelines vary by device type and healthcare system, but typical replacement cycles range from 3 to 7 years for major devices such as wheelchairs and hearing aids. If your needs change before the standard replacement cycle, you can request an earlier reassessment.

When to Request Reassessment

You should request a reassessment of your assistive device needs when your medical condition changes significantly, when you experience pain or discomfort while using the device, when the device no longer meets your functional needs, when your living situation changes, when the device is damaged or worn out, or when new technology becomes available that may better serve your needs. Do not wait for your next scheduled appointment if you are experiencing problems — contact your provider promptly.

How Can You Get the Most from Your Assistive Device?

To maximize the benefit of your assistive device, attend all training sessions, practice regularly, follow maintenance schedules, communicate openly with your healthcare team about any problems, and attend follow-up appointments. Involving family members in training and being patient during the adjustment period also significantly improve outcomes.

The effectiveness of an assistive device depends not only on the quality of the device itself but also on how well it is integrated into your daily life. Research in rehabilitation medicine consistently shows that user engagement, training, and ongoing support are among the strongest predictors of successful device use. A technically excellent device that sits unused in a closet provides no benefit.

One of the most important factors in successful device use is thorough initial training. Take advantage of every training opportunity offered to you. Ask questions, practice under supervision, and request additional sessions if you feel unsure about any aspect of device use. If possible, have family members or caregivers attend training sessions so they can provide informed support at home.

Building confidence with a new device takes time and practice. Start by using the device in familiar, controlled environments before moving to more challenging settings. For example, practice using a new wheelchair at home before venturing out to shops or public spaces. Practice with hearing aids in quiet environments before trying them in noisy restaurants. This gradual approach reduces frustration and builds competence.

Connecting with other device users can be invaluable for practical advice and emotional support. Peer support groups, online forums, and disability organizations often provide opportunities to learn from people who have experience with similar devices. These communities can offer practical tips, product recommendations, and encouragement during the adjustment process.

• Attend all training and follow-up sessions — these are essential for getting the most from your device
• Practice regularly — consistent use builds skill and confidence
• Follow maintenance schedules — regular care extends device life and ensures safety
• Communicate with your team — report any problems, discomfort, or changing needs promptly
• Involve your support network — family and caregivers benefit from understanding your device
• Be patient — adjusting to a new device takes time, and that is normal
• Know your rights — you are entitled to a device that meets your needs and to ongoing support