Simply put, adaptive devices for people with disabilities are products, systems, and/or machines used to help people perform ADLs. More than 6.8 million Americans with short- and long-term disabilities use adaptive devices to help them live more independent, gratifying lives.

Assistive devices are tools that help make your daily activities easier. You may also hear them called adaptive equipment. These tools can help you with many activities, like bathing, grooming, dressing, walking, writing, or eating. They can be simple or complex. They range from a fork with an extra-large handle to a power wheelchair.

Adaptive equipment is a subcategory of assistive technology that’s specifically designed for people with disabilities (and unlikely to be used by those without them). In most cases, adaptive devices for persons with disabilities are. Common examples include adaptive car equipment, screen readers, and sip-and-puff systems, among others.

Mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, canes, crutches 1, prosthetic devices, and orthotic devices. 2 Hearing aids to help people hear or hear more clearly. 3 Cognitive aids, including computer or electrical assistive devices, to help people with memory, attention, or other challenges in their thinking skills. 3