ABSTRACT
Occupational, physical, and speech therapists each assess a patient's specific needs to maximize independence and safety, making adaptive equipment recommendations. This chapter discusses the categories of the adaptive equipment. An individual utilizes the mobility devices to enhance locomotion or provide transportation. Transfer equipment includes sliding boards, Hoyer lifts, gait belts, sit-stand lift devices, and trapezes (for pulling upright in bed). A tub/shower chair can be placed in a tub or shower to provide a seat for bathing. Patients have to be assessed for proper safety, balance, and strength. Some simple adaptive equipment options that may assist a patient with increased participation in household tasks could include a jar opener, key holders, reachers/grabbers, and doorknob extenders. The lists of adaptive equipment and companies that provide the equipment are extensive and ever changing. The chapter lists a few companies that can provide information on appropriate devices.
