- **Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):** Basic tasks like dressing, eating, bathing, and moving around your home.
- **Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs):** Higher-level tasks such as managing finances, preparing meals, taking medication, and communicating with others.
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What Are Adaptive Devices? A Beginner's Guide for Families
If you or a loved one is living with a disability, you may have come across the term \"adaptive devices\" and wondered what it really means.
Photo credit: EnabledHub archive
Key Takeaways
**Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):** Basic tasks like dressing, eating, bathing, and moving around your home.
**Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs):** Higher-level tasks such as managing finances, preparing meals, taking medication, and communicating with others.
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Quick Caregiver Checklist
Use this list as a fast setup reference before each care routine.
Adaptive Devices vs. Assistive Technology
While the terms are often used interchangeably, adaptive devices are a specialized category within the broader world of assistive technology. Assistive technology includes any tool, software, or system that helps someone perform tasks they might otherwise struggle with. Adaptive devices are specifically designed for individuals with disabilities, addressing physical, cognitive, or sensory challenges.
Over 6.8 million Americans currently rely on these products to navigate daily life with confidence.
What Do Adaptive Devices Help With?
Adaptive devices support two key areas of daily functioning:
- **Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):** Basic tasks like dressing, eating, bathing, and moving around your home.
- **Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs):** Higher-level tasks such as managing finances, preparing meals, taking medication, and communicating with others.
Who Benefits from Adaptive Devices?
People living with a wide range of conditions benefit from adaptive devices, including those with cerebral palsy, spinal cord injuries, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, autism, ADHD, and vision or hearing impairments.
Where to Start
Begin by identifying the daily tasks that present the most difficulty. Consult with an occupational therapist who can recommend the right devices tailored to your specific needs. Organizations like UDS Foundation also provide guidance and financial support to help you get started.
The right adaptive device can be life-changing. Start exploring your options today.
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