What is the Difference Between Assistive Devices and Mobility Devices?

Imagine visiting a mobility device supplier and asking them for assistive devices like hearing aids or magnifying glasses. That would be funny, at least if not embarrassing. Though you may not be able to tell the differences between assistive and mobility devices, if you see through the eyes of an occupational therapist, you can effortlessly point out several.

Assistive devices help people do daily activities, and examples include sensory products, hearing aids, magnifying glasses, screen readers, etc. On the other hand, mobility devices help people move around, and examples include wheelchairs, canes, and walkers. If you want to learn more about the differences, read this blog until the end, as it contains vital information on a similar topic.

What Are Assistive Devices?

Assistive devices are tools that support daily life, especially when someone has difficulty seeing, hearing, moving, speaking, or doing things with their hands. Here are some examples of assistive devices:

• Hearing aids
• Screen readers
• Magnifying glasses
• Speech-to-text apps
• Smart home devices
• Grabbers or reachers
• Special keyboards or mice

These devices are mainly used by individuals with permanent disabilities, people with temporary injuries, aged people who need a bit of extra help, or children with developmental delays. Assistive devices are crucial for people as they:

• Help people stay independent.
• Make their daily life easier and safer.
• Reduce the need for constant help from others.
• Support to work, learn, and communicate better.

What Are Mobility Devices?

Mobility devices provide support when walking, standing, sitting, or moving around while the patient is inside the home or outside. Here are some examples of mobility aids:

• Wheelchairs
• Canes
• Crutches
• Walkers
• Standing frames
• Mobility scooters

Mobility walking aids are mainly used by individuals with permanent disabilities (like cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis), people recovering from injuries or surgery, aged people with weak muscles or joint pain, or people with chronic illnesses like arthritis or Parkinson’s disease. These tools are important for people as they:

• Help people stay mobile and active.
• Reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
• Allow for independence and freedom.
• Make it possible to go out, work, study, and socialize.

Key Differences Between the Two

Now that you know the definition of both mobility devices and assistive devices, go through the table below to learn about the key differences between the two.

Conclusion

There is a huge difference between assistive devices and mobility devices. While assistive devices help with daily tasks like hearing, seeing, and using hands, mobility devices help with moving around, like walking, standing, etc. The first focuses on a wide range of user needs, including vision, hearing, and speech learning, while the latter focuses on physical movement problems. Also, assistive aids can be digital, but mobility aids can only be physical, manual, or electric. If you need more information on assistive or mobility devices or want to hire mobility aids, contact Hunteram immediately.

Read also our expert tips to find the right walking aid for your balance needs