Find Assisted Living in Your Area
Seniors all over the world want to maintain their independence and enjoy life as much as possible as they age. As you get older, however, your body goes through changes that can affect your ability to do the things you love. The risk of losing your independence increases if you’re isolated from other people, have serious chronic health conditions, or have a living environment that’s difficult to navigate. Homebound seniors are also more likely to experience a loss of independence compared to seniors who can leave their homes to run errands, socialize, and engage in other activities.
Assistive technology can help you overcome some of the physical challenges associated with aging, making it easier to perform all the activities necessary to maintain your independence and quality of life. Using assistive devices can also make your home more comfortable, allowing you to age in place for as long as possible.
This guide describes some of the most common physical changes that occur as you age and explains how you can use assistive technology to overcome the challenges posed by these changes. It also contains several resources to help you find assistive technology that meets your needs and funding to cover the costs.
Age-Related Changes to Physical Health and Functioning
As you age, you may experience physical changes that make it difficult to carry out a wide range of activities. Some of these changes are a normal part of aging while others occur due to medical conditions or medication side effects. Below, we list some of the most common changes, explain why they happen, and list the challenges associated with each.
Vision Loss
It’s normal as we age to notice some vision changes, such as a loss of focus, a greater need for light to see text or screens, and difficulty distinguishing between colors. However, macular degeneration may lead to more serious vision loss in some seniors, as well as cataracts. This can make it difficult to complete daily tasks such as cooking, reading, and using devices.
Hearing Loss
Age-related inner ear changes can result in hearing loss. Middle ear changes as well as damage to the nerves that send audio signals to the brain can contribute to this loss, making it more difficult to enjoy conversations, music, and television. For some seniors, hearing loss can increase their risk of injuries, especially when living alone.
Arthritis
Seniors with arthritis generally have one of two types: osteoarthritis, caused by wear and tear on the joints, and arthritis caused by autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis. The main symptoms of arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often resulting in difficulties with daily tasks such as using phones, opening jars, and cooking. Less commonly, arthritis can be caused by uric acid crystals in the joints, lupus, or infections.
Reduced Range of Motion
Connective tissue becomes less elastic with age, resulting in a loss of flexibility and range of motion. This can make it difficult to complete daily tasks such as combing your hair, preparing meals, or getting dressed. Arthritis and past joint injuries can also contribute to a limited range of motion.
Poor Balance or Frailty
Inner ear disorders can cause balance problems while taking certain medications, having a stroke, or suffering from chronic low blood pressure can cause dizziness that contributes to them. Seniors suffering from poor balance may develop frailty syndrome due to changes in their muscles, heart, and endocrine system, leading to weakness.
Forgetfulness and Confusion
Brain changes can lead to forgetfulness as you age, causing many seniors to forget to take their medications, lock their homes, or do other daily tasks. These changes can lead to Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and other conditions that cause seniors to forget important things they need to do.
Main Types of Assistive Technology
Assistive technology is any system, software program, piece of equipment, or item that can help you improve or maintain your functional abilities. When you think of technology, you might think of computers and smartphones, but assistive technology also includes low-tech items such as manual wheelchairs, braces, and canes. The table below provides an overview of the most common types of assistive technology.
| Type of Technology | How It Helps | Examples |
| Communication Devices | If you have difficulty communicating due to a medical condition, communication devices can help you stay connected to others. | – Hearing aids
– Speech tablets – Tactile communicators – Writing tablets – Alphabet boards |
| Mobility Aids | Mobility aids make it easier to get around if you have poor balance, muscle weakness, or other functional impairments. | – Chair lifts
– Walkers – Power scooters – Wheelchairs |
| Daily Living
Aids |
Daily living aids make it easier to do chores and perform other tasks around the house. For example, a daily living aid can help you open jars, chop ingredients, reach objects on high shelves, or get clothes out of the washer without having to bend over. | – Reaching aids
– Key turners – Jar openers – Grabber tools – Book holders – Modified clothing – Modified bathtubs |
| Learning Tools | Learning tools can help you maintain your cognitive function. | – Computer software
– Mobile apps |
| Vocational Tools | If you haven’t retired yet, vocational tools can make it easier to perform the duties of your job. | – Voice recognition software
– Accessible computer hardware – Adapted office equipment |
Tips for Choosing Assistive Technology
Even if your insurance covers assistive technology, it may not pay the full cost of each item. There may also be some out-of-pocket costs associated with maintaining or repairing some items that your insurance won’t cover at all. That’s why it’s so important to choose assistive technology carefully. You want items that can give you the most benefits at the lowest possible cost. To choose assistive technology that’s a good match for your needs, follow these tips:
- Assess your environment: Some types of assistive technology are designed to make it easier to navigate your home. Before deciding what type of AT to buy, it’s important to assess your environment to determine which items are likely to provide the greatest benefits.
- Think about the tasks you have the most difficulty doing: If you have trouble with a task you only need to perform a few times per year, it may not be worth investing in assistive technology. You could have a family member help you or hire someone to perform the task when needed. If you have trouble with daily tasks, however, it makes sense to purchase an assistive device to make things easier. For example, do you struggle to hold a pen or have trouble holding your utensils when you eat? Keep these needs in mind as you’re reviewing your options.
- Ask for product demonstrations: Some assistive devices are inexpensive, so if you purchase one and it doesn’t work as well as expected, you won’t lose much money. Other items cost hundreds or thousands of dollars, so you need to do as much research as possible before making a decision. If possible, ask the vendor for a product demonstration, so you can see how the item works and determine if you might have problems using it on your own.
- Try out products before you buy them: Even if you see a demonstration, it’s important to try the item for yourself before you commit to buying it. If you’re looking for a wheelchair or power scooter, make sure you can sit in it comfortably. You should be able to adjust a walker to a comfortable height so you don’t have to bend forward to use it. If you’re looking for a tablet to help you with communication, you need to test it out to make sure it’s easy to use. Trying out assistive devices ahead of time can help you avoid spending money on items that don’t work as well as advertised or just aren’t a good match for your needs.
- Ask for training: A little training goes a long way when it comes to using assistive technology correctly. If the vendor doesn’t offer formal training, contact your local Area Agency on Aging for a referral to an organization that can help you learn how to use your new device. You may even be able to visit a local library to get help with using mobile apps or tablet-based solutions. If you’re selecting assistive technology for an older family member, make sure you understand how to use it before you start implementing it into their daily life.
- Review your needs regularly: As you use assistive technology, monitor how well it’s helping you remain comfortable and independent. If it’s not working as you expected, you may need to upgrade the device or replace it with something that’s a better fit for your needs. As your needs change, you may also need to purchase additional items.
Paying for Assistive Technology
With rising costs, it’s difficult for many seniors to cover the cost of medical care, assistive devices, and other necessities. Fortunately, government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations offer benefits that can help you cover the cost of assistive technology. We outlined some of the most popular options below.
Medicare
Medicare is a health insurance program designed for seniors and young adults with certain disabilities. Original Medicare is the government-managed version of the program, while Medicare Advantage is the version that gives enrollees access to plans managed by private insurers.
What It Covers
Medicare Part B covers durable medical equipment (DME), including canes, crutches, walkers, wheelchairs, and lifts. With Medicare Advantage, you may have access to additional coverage not covered in Original Medicare.
Eligibility
Seniors who turn 65 or have been receiving SSDI benefits for at least two years become eligible for Medicare. People suffering from lateral sclerosis (ALS) and end-stage renal disease or those who have been approved to receive disability benefits may also be eligible. Only U.S. citizens and lawful immigrants may apply.
How To Access Assistance
If you don’t qualify for automatic enrollment, apply for Medicare online or call (800) 772-1213 to learn more.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a government program designed to provide health care services to individuals with limited income and resources.
What it Covers
Medicaid coverage for assistive technology varies between states. Medicaid may cover braces, wheelchairs, listening devices, stair glides, ramps, and other devices if they have been deemed medically necessary by the senior’s physician or licensed care provider.
Eligibility
If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful immigrant with limited income and assets, you may be eligible for coverage under Medicaid. The income and asset limits differ by state, so check your state’s requirements to learn more.
How to Access Assistance
To apply for Medicaid, visit the contact page at Medicaid.gov, choose your state from the dropdown menu, and click “Go” to be redirected to your state’s coverage page.
Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance covers medically necessary services, which are needed to diagnose or treat a medical condition. In exchange for this coverage, you pay a monthly premium to keep your policy active. You may also have to pay copays, co-insurance, and/or deductibles.
What it Covers
The terms of your insurance plan determine the coverage you can receive for assistive technology. Private insurance plans may cover canes, walkers, wheelchairs, chair lifts, hearing aids, vision aids, and other devices.
Eligibility
Every provider and plan has different eligibility requirements. Contact specific insurers who serve your area to learn more about your eligibility to receive assistance for medical devices through their plans.
How to Access Assistance
Once you choose an insurer, visit their application page to apply for coverage.
Easterseals
Easterseals provides many services to help people with disabilities maintain their independence. This includes job training, assistive technology, mental health programs, and respite care.
What it Covers
Different Easterseals chapters cover slightly different equipment depending on their means, but they all operate device exchanges to help seniors access assistive technology. Seniors may be able to get wheelchairs, walkers, hearing aids, vision magnifiers, and more for free.
Eligibility
If your local Easterseals chapter operates an AT exchange, speak with them about their specific eligibility requirements.
How to Access Assistance
To access assistance, contact your local Easterseals chapter to find out more.
Muscular Dystrophy Association
The Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) raises funds for research on muscular dystrophy and other neuromuscular disorders. It also advocates for programs and legislation to help people with neuromuscular disorders live longer, happier lives.
What it Covers
While the MDA does not provide direct funding for assistive technology, it can help you connect to funding from other sources.
Eligibility
The MDA will provide referrals to financial assistance programs based on your needs.
How to Access Assistance
Contact your local MDA chapter to request a referral to access funding for assistive technology.
United Cerebral Palsy
United Cerebral Palsy (UCP) helps people with cerebral palsy maintain their independence and access the services they need to stay healthy.
What it Covers
The UCP operates the Bellows Fund to provide qualifying seniors with access to funding for wheelchairs, hearing aids, communication devices, chair lifts, computer equipment, and more. The amount the organization raises each year determines how much it can distribute to the seniors who need it.
Eligibility
Only affiliates can request funding requests, so you can’t send the UCP individual applications. You’ll need a UCP affiliate to verify your financial need first. Visit their site to learn more.
How to Access Assistance
Contact UCP in your area and ask to be referred to a local affiliate so they can submit a funding application to the Bellows Fund on your behalf.
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation
The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation aims to improve the lives of people with MS while funding research into potential cures for the disease.
What it Covers
The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) can provide neck wraps and other related medical items. They can also help with funding to buy assistive technology for MS sufferers, including computer aids, communication devices, mobility devices, and other aids.
Eligibility
If you have MS, you may be eligible for funding, provided you can demonstrate financial need and confirm your diagnosis through your doctor.
How to Access Assistance
Complete an online application on the MSF website to get started. Alternatively, you can fill out a paper application and mail it to the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Attn: Survey Coordinator, 6520 North Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309.
How to Access Funding for Assistive Technology
To qualify for funding to help pay for assistive technology, you may have to provide documents related to your medical condition and/or financial circumstances. Since many seniors need funding for assistive devices, organizations ask for this information to ensure that they use their limited funds to help individuals with the greatest need. Follow the tips below to ensure you have the documentation to show each organization that you need funding assistance to maintain your quality of life.
- Ask for a needs assessment. Some organizations require you to demonstrate that assistive technology is medically necessary. The best way to do this is to have a medical professional conduct a formal needs assessment. This type of assessment is usually completed by a social worker or physical therapist, but you may also be able to have your needs documented by a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. The needs assessment should provide an overview of your background, your current status, and recommendations for managing your condition or improving your quality of life.
- Get an evaluation document: An evaluation document is an alternative to a needs assessment. It explains what type of assistive technology you need, how it would help you, and why alternative solutions wouldn’t work as well as the requested items.
- Gather financial documents: Medicaid enrollment is limited to applicants with demonstrated financial need. To verify your need, your state Medicaid agency may ask you to provide pay stubs, tax returns, bank account statements and other financial documents. Before you apply for funding, make sure you have these documents on hand.
- Prepare photos or videos: In some cases, a photo or video of you performing a task with and without an assistive device can help show that you would greatly benefit from receiving funding to help pay for assistive technology. For example, a short video showing you walking unassisted and then walking with a walker could help convince the funding organization that you should receive the funds you requested.
Directory of Assistive Technology
Now that you understand how assistive technology can improve your quality of life and help you maintain your independence as you age, it’s time to experience the freedom that using assistive devices can offer. Consult the directory below to learn more about how one of these devices can help you overcome the challenges of age-related physical changes and chronic medical conditions.
Communication Devices
Communication devices make it easier to write, hear and speak. Some devices rely on tablets and software, while others are a little less complex. These devices are typically used by seniors who have difficulty hearing conversations, producing speech, using a computer or holding a writing utensil.
| Device | How It’s Used | Conditions It Can Help With |
| Communication Board | Some seniors have medical conditions that make it difficult for them to speak. Communication boards make it easier for these seniors to express themselves. When the user wants to communicate, they point at a word, symbol, or picture on the board, allowing the other person to understand what they want to say. | – Stroke
– Medical conditions that weaken the throat muscles – ALS – Alzheimer’s disease – Multiple sclerosis |
| Voice Output Device | Voice output devices use switches or other mechanisms to produce speech. Some devices contain words recorded by humans, while others contain digitized words produced by a computer. | – Any medical condition that makes it difficult for the user to produce speech on their own |
| Voice Recognition Software | Voice recognition software converts speech into written text. It’s often used by seniors with medical conditions that make it difficult to type or use a computer for long periods of time. | – Arthritis
– Carpal tunnel syndrome – Tendonitis – Heart conditions that cause arm weakness – Stroke |
| Magnifiers | Magnifiers enlarge text and pictures, making them easier for people with visual impairments to see. Some magnifiers are built into computer operating systems, allowing seniors with visual impairments to better see the text displayed on their screens. | – Macular degeneration
– Glaucoma – Vision loss due to diabetes – Cataracts – Other visual impairments |
| Signaling Devices | Signaling devices, also known as alerting devices, use vibrations, loud sounds, and/or flashing lights to get the attention of users with hearing loss. These devices include doorbell alerts, carbon monoxide detectors, telephone signalers, weather alerts, smoke alarm signalers, and general alarms to let the user know when their clock is going off. | – Deafness
– Age-related hearing loss – Any medical condition that makes it harder to hear |
| Captioning Devices | Captioning devices turn speech and other sounds into text that can be read by someone with hearing loss. | – Deafness
– Age-related hearing loss – Any medical condition that makes it harder to hear |
Mobility Aids
Mobility aids help you move around, giving you more independence. Some of the most inexpensive items cost as little as $20, while power wheelchairs cost thousands of dollars.
| Device | How It’s Used | Conditions It Can Help With |
| Canes | A cane supports your body weight and reduces the workload on your legs. | – Poor balance
– Leg weakness – Pain in the lower part of the body – Injuries that make it difficult to walk or maintain normal balance |
| Walkers | Walkers provide support for people with medical issues that affect their endurance. They’re also helpful for seniors with problems affecting the knees, hips, or back. | – Arthritis
– Parkinson’s disease – Partial paralysis due to stroke – Multiple sclerosis – Osteoporosis |
| Scooters | Scooters make it easier to get around if you have problems that make it difficult to walk or stand in one place. | – Leg weakness
– Osteoporosis – Heart and lung conditions that impact endurance – Arthritis – Any medical condition that affects your ability to walk |
| Manual Wheelchairs | A manual wheelchair is a mobility system that is user-powered. Seniors with arm weakness may have their family members or caregivers push the chair from behind when necessary. | – Paralysis
– Stroke – Heart and lung problems that affect physical endurance – Osteoporosis – Any condition that impairs a senior’s ability to walk |
| Power Wheelchairs | Power wheelchairs have motors, eliminating the need for seniors to use their upper-body strength to move around. This makes power wheelchairs suitable for seniors with medical conditions that affect both their upper and lower bodies. | – ALS
– Paralysis – Stroke – Cardiovascular problems that affect endurance – Any medical condition that makes it difficult to walk |
| Stair Lifts | A stair lift is a motorized device mounted along a stairway. It has a seat so a senior can sit to ride up and down the stairs instead of having to walk. | – Poor balance
– Paralysis – Severe arthritis – Heart and lung conditions that make it difficult to climb stairs – Any medical condition that prevents a senior from using stairs safely |
Daily Living Aids
Daily living aids make it easier to perform activities of daily living and use some of the features of your home, and they can make your home more comfortable.
| Device | How It’s Used | Conditions It Can Help With |
| Reachers | Reachers are used to access items stored on high shelves or retrieve items without having to bend over. | – Arthritis
– Back pain – Other medical conditions that make it difficult for a senior to reach up or bend down |
| Light Switch Extenders | For seniors who use wheelchairs, light switches installed high on the wall can be difficult to reach. A light switch extender makes it easier to turn them on and off. | – Any condition that requires a senior to use a wheelchair |
| Key Holders/Turners | Some conditions make it difficult to hold keys steadily or turn them in locks. Key holders and key turners help seniors accomplish these actions. | – Arthritis
– Weakness in the hand muscles – Any condition that makes it difficult to hold or turn a key |
| Adaptive Utensils | Adaptive utensils make it easier for seniors to eat without assistance. They may have curved handles, built-up handles, or universal cuffs that fasten around the user’s hand. Some adaptive utensils even have electronic components to keep them stable during use. | – Conditions that cause hand tremors
– Arthritis – Any condition that causes difficulty holding utensils or keeping them steady |
| Adaptive Drinking Devices | Adaptive drinking devices are modified to make it easier for users to drink liquids. One example is a plastic drinking glass that has a cutout for the user’s nose. This helps maintain proper positioning while drinking, making it easier to swallow. | – ALS
– Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) – Other conditions that cause swallowing problems |
| Medication Dispensers | Seniors with forgetfulness or confusion may forget to take their prescription medications on time. You may even forget that you already took your medication and take another dose before you need it. Medication dispensers eliminate these safety issues by dispensing the correct amount of medication at the right time. These dispensers also sound alerts to let you know it’s time to take your medicine. In some cases, the dispenser will even alert a family member if you don’t take your medication within a certain amount of time. | – Alzheimer’s disease
– Dementia – Age-related forgetfulness – Other conditions that impair memory |
Learning Tools
Learning tools are ideal for seniors with dementia and other conditions that cause cognitive decline. These tools may be used to prevent cognitive symptoms from worsening. Some mobile apps cost just a few dollars each, making it more affordable than ever for seniors to improve their quality of life.
| Device | How It’s Used | Conditions It Can Help With |
| Mobile Applications (Apps) | Mobile applications help seniors in a variety of ways. If you’ve been diagnosed with dementia, playing interactive mobile games can help you stay engaged and preserve cognitive function. Mobile apps can also help you gain knowledge or learn new skills to improve your quality of life. | – Alzheimer’s disease
– Parkinson’s disease – Dementia – Other conditions that affect cognitive function |
Vocational Tools
Vocational tools make it easier to perform employment-related tasks, such as counting change or using a computer. In the United States, employers may have to pay for vocational tools as part of their obligation under the Americans with Disabilities Act, which requires covered companies to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities.
| Device | How It’s Used | Conditions It Can Help With |
| Assistive Keyboards | Assistive keyboards are used to make it easier for people with visual impairments and physical disabilities to use computers. They may have attachments to make it easier to find the right keys or be larger or smaller than usual to make them easier for the user to control. | – Arthritis
– Muscle weakness in the arms – Visual impairments |
| Currency Identifiers | Currency identifiers help users with visual impairments identify the denomination of a piece of paper currency. | – Blindness
– Cataracts – Macular degeneration – Other conditions that cause vision loss |
| Color Identification Tools | Color identification tools can help users identify the color of an object, making it easier to sort items or work with colored textiles. Some models can detect more than 200 colors. | – Blindness
– Glaucoma – Macular degeneration – Poor vision in low light conditions – Cataracts – Other conditions that affect visual acuity |
| Exoskeletal Arms | An exoskeletal arm is a mechanical limb that supports a user’s natural range of motion, making it easier to perform tasks, such as reaching and picking up small objects. | – Recent surgery on one of the arms
– Arthritis – Tendonitis – Osteoporosis – Other conditions that can cause arm weakness |