Assistive Devices vs Mobility Devices
When you start reading up on assistive technology for people with disabilities, it's likely that you've seen phrases such as "assistive devices" and "mobility devices" used interchangeably—even though they don't quite describe the same thing.
If you are looking for an assistive device, understanding the difference between these phrases can help you to find information more quickly about the specific kind of device you need.
The Difference Between Assistive Devices vs Mobility Devices
The main difference between assistive devices and mobility devices is that assistive devices encompass all types of physical assistance aids while mobility devices refer specifically to those aids related to physical movement.
To break it down, "assistive devices" refers to any kind of physical equipment or digital tool that improves an individual's functioning when they have physical, intellectual, speech, hearing, and/or vision limitations. As a subset of "assistive devices," mobility devices specifically help people with mobility disabilities.
To put it another way, all mobility aids are assistive devices but not all assistive devices are mobility aids. A cane, for example, is both an assistive device and a mobility aid. Speech recognition software is an assistive device but is not a mobility aid.
Examples of Assistive Devices
Assistive devices, also called assistive technologies and assistive products, are available for all manner of intellectual and physical disabilities. They range from low-tech to high-tech. The World Health Organization recognizes that assistive technology is important for enhancing the functioning and independence and thus the well-being of people with disabilities.
Assistive Devices for the Visually Impaired
Glasses and contact lenses
Magnifying glasses
Screen readers
White canes
Guide dogs
Braille
Assistive Technologies for the Hard of Hearing
Hearing aids
Hearing loops
Subtitles
Assistive Devices for Mobility (Mobility Devices)
Walkers
Clubfoot braces
Prosthetics
Gait trainers
Adaptive bicycles/tricycles
Manual wheelchairs
Assistive Technologies for Communication (Communication Aids)
Speech generating devices
Speech recognition software
Communication cards
Communication boards
Assistive Devices for Positioning
Cushions
Splints
Assistive Technologies for Executive Functioning
Visual timers
Visual schedules
Accessibility Adaptations
In addition to devices designed to help people with disabilities get around and communicate, there are accessibility adaptations that help to keep physically limited individuals and older adults safe and assist with the transportation of mobility aids. This category includes things like grab bars, toilet rails, wheelchair ramps, vehicle lifts, and vertical platform lifts.
Laws Pertaining to Assistive and Mobility Devices
Certain laws, regulations, and statutes have been enacted over the years to ensure access to and awareness about assistive technologies and equipment.
The Assistive Technology Act
The Assistive Technology Act of 1988 (reauthorized in 1994, 1998, and 2004) was created to raise awareness and ensure that people with disabilities could receive assistive technologies to help them improve, maintain, or increase functionality.
Under this law, every U.S state and territory is given grant money for an Assistive Technology Act Project (abbreviated to ATAP). Each project provides services to people with disabilities, their families, and agencies that provide education and employment services.
The Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act 2010 Standards for Accessible Design state that mobility device users must be given access to any area that is open to members of the public, unless the device would pose a legitimate safety issue. For this purpose, public buildings should have ramps, elevators, or vertical platform lifts and aisles that are wide enough for wheelchairs to fit through.
If a mobility device can't reasonably be accommodated in a given space, the provider needs to find an alternative method of service provision, such as curbside service or meeting the individual at a different place. Devices such as Segways® and golf cars that aren't usually allowed at a given site (such as a park) may be allowed if they are being used because of a mobility disability.
Choosing an Assistive Technology
If you know you have a physical, intellectual, or other kind of limitation, you should first go for an evaluation with a professional who specializes in your condition. This specialist may be able to recommend the most appropriate technology to help you thrive.
The exact assistive technologies available can vary from state to state and county to county, but software-based solutions can generally be downloaded as long as you have an internet connection.
Choosing a Mobility Device
If you do need a mobility aid for walking, there is a wide range of devices you can use—ranging from minimal to complete support:
Canes - Ideal for people with balance issues or partial weakness on one side
Walkers - Ideal for people with more significant balance issues and weakness
Rollators - Ideal for people who would benefit from a walker and lack the strength to lift the walker and put it back down
Manual wheelchair - Ideal for people who can't walk long distances but have the upper body strength to propel themselves forward
Power wheelchair - Ideal for people who don't have the strength to use a manual wheelchair
Mobility scooter - Ideal for independent adults who tire easily when walking long distances
Stairlift - Ideal for people who have a mobility issue that would make it dangerous or impossible to walk up and down stairs
Pool lift - Ideal for people who enjoy swimming or participate in hydrotherapy but cannot lower themselves into a pool
When choosing a device, you should get a professional evaluation from a medical professional or physical therapist to find out exactly what your limitations and abilities are. This professional will be able to recommend the most appropriate device, size it correctly, and teach you how to use it safely.
When purchasing or renting a mobility aid, it's also important to purchase or rent one from a reputable supplier that offers warranties, training, and regular maintenance—such as the program offered by Mobility Plus Colorado. Assistive devices purchased off the internet might be cheaper, but if it's the wrong fit for you or—in many cases—unsafe, the device could do more harm than good.
Assistive and Mobility Aids Can Have a Positive Impact on Your Quality of Life
Whether you need assistive technology or mobility aid temporarily or permanently, it's worth exploring the range of options and having a professional evaluation to identify the most appropriate technology or device.
There are so many options available, and the right device really can change your life.