Written by, Fiona Song, MS, OTR/L, LSVT
Adaptive Equipment is an object or tool that promotes an individual’s independence in daily activities. Occupational Therapists (OT) can incorporate adaptive equipment education during treatments to enhance the performance of tasks that are meaningful to the individual. Adaptive equipment has its purpose across a broad range of conditions and ages that impact functionality.
You may be wondering what the difference is between adaptive equipment and Durable Medical Equipment (DME). DME is used for medical treatment and management that is usually covered by insurance. Some examples of DME include walkers, wheelchairs, hospital beds, and respiratory equipment. Adaptive equipment is meant to improve a person’s participation or independence, and is typically not covered by insurance.
Here’s a short list of common adaptive equipment-
- Long-handled Reacher: This tool is excellent for multiple purposes! This reduces the need to bend over, and can be for reaching items that are on the ground or out of arm’s reach, and even for lower body dressing.
- Button Hook: Mainly used to fasten/unfasten buttons on shirts, dresses, cuffs, etc. This is a great tool for someone that has trouble with fine motor tasks, or only the use of one hand. Some button hooks also come with a zipper hook on the other end too!
- Hand Held Shower Heads: This showerhead is attached by a longer cord/hose that can be taken down by the individual, and can be aimed wherever you need it. A great product for even caregivers to rinse with ease or even help an individual bathe independently, by allowing them to clean effectively while seated.
- Toothpaste/Soap Dispensers: This is a great option that can be placed in the bathroom. An easy press button reduces the demand it can be to hold and squeeze a bottle. This option is great for someone with weak grip or only able to use one hand.
- Dycem: This is one of my favorites- A dual sided non-slip material that is used to stabilize objects. This is great for preventing plates from sliding off the table, and it’s great to improve your grip needed for opening jars or bottles. Dycem can be cut to whatever desired size to fit all needs!
- Built-up Handles: Thicker and wider handles can be placed on a wide range of utensils, such as- silverware, hair brushes, toothbrushes, and pens. A built up handle can ease the use of these items if there is a weakened grip/pinch or fine motor coordination.
This list could go on and on, and adaptive equipment is continuously expanding. If you have questions about Occupational Therapy or how adaptive equipment could help you, schedule a consultation with our Occupational Therapist today by calling 269-459-6212!
