Assistive technology and mobility aids for the older patient with disability

Use of assistive technology, particularly mobility aids, is increasingly common in the older population. Benefits from assistive technology may include decreased difficulty with tasks and decreased need for help from another person. However, problems with assistive technology are common, including lack of needed devices and disrepair or poor fit of the devices that are in use. The geriatrics practitioner is in an ideal position to identify the need for assistive technology and to detect problems with incorrect device usage, disrepair, or poor fit. In addition, the geriatrics practitioner is in the best position to identify the ways in which assistive technology can better meet the needs of elders and to point the direction for the development of new and better technology. Technology is opening doors for disabled persons that never opened before, making it a very exciting time in geriatric rehabilitation.

Duke Scholars

Author Helen Marie Hoenig Medicine, Geriatrics