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Adaptive Equipment for the Disabled

People with disabilities use a variety of adaptive equipment to accomplish everyday tasks like talking on the phone, using a computer and driving a car. Professionals can help people select the right equipment for their needs.

  1. Adaptive Equipment for the Deaf

    • Adaptive equipment for the deaf includes TTY telephones, televisions with closed-captioning devices and alarm clocks and door bells that light up instead of ringing. Deaf parents can even get a device that has a light that flashes to alert them when their baby cries.

    Adaptive Equipment for the Blind

    • Adaptive equipment for the blind includes computer programs that read text aloud, video magnifiers and Braille printers. Many blind people also use Braille knobs for stoves and other appliances.

    Adaptive Equipment for the Physically Disabled

    • Adaptive equipment for the physically disabled includes wheelchairs, wheelchair ramps and wheelchair lifts. Some physically disabled people drive cars or vans with hand controls instead of foot controls.

    Selecting Adaptive Equipment

    • Health care professionals such as physical therapists and occupational therapists help patients select the proper adaptive equipment. Many cities have Speech and Hearing Centers or similar organizations for the deaf and Associations for the Blind or similar organizations for the blind that provide assistance with selecting adaptive equipment.

    Paying for Adaptive Equipment

    • Health insurance, Medicare and Medicaid may pay for some adaptive equipment. Organizations that assist disabled people can help people find ways to pay for other things.

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