Assistive Technology for Older Adults: Opportunities for Advocacy

Abstract

For older adults with functional impairments, assistive devices can often provide increased safety, independence, and improved quality of life. However, many older adults are unaware of the types of devices available and/or may have difficulty obtaining these devices due to a lack of knowledge of sources of assistive technology or a lack of personal funds. Professionals, volunteers, and family members who provide in-home assistance are often in the best position to observe difficulties with activities of daily living and to offer recommendations for simple, low-tech assistive devices and home modifications. Along with making recommendations, it is often necessary to provide follow-up advocacy to ensure that recommended devices and home modifications are obtained. The Ability Program for Older Adults (APOA) provides both in-home assessment and extensive follow-up advocacy for assistive devices needed by functionally impaired older clients. This article describes the APOA approach, as well as ways that others who provide in-home services or assistance might be able to incorporate the recommendation of simple assistive technology and follow-up advocacy into their service delivery.