What Are the Types of Assistive Technology?

Amid an aging population and an increase in noncommunicable diseases, the World Health Organization (WHO) projects that by 2050 approximately 3.5 billion people will need some form of assistive technology — tools, devices, or products — to enhance their lives. It also estimates that over 2.5 billion people already rely on one or more types of assistive technology.

Professionals interested in working in this growing and important field need to understand how these tools assist individuals with disabilities and what types of assistive technology are currently being used and will be used in the future. One way they can do that and advance their career opportunities is by earning a master’s degree in assistive technology.

Assistive Technology Definition

The term assistive technology refers to equipment, devices, systems, software, or hardware that allows individuals with disabilities to learn, work, and perform daily activities with greater ease. Although they’re becoming increasingly advanced, these tools can be decidedly low tech, such as walking canes and magnifying glasses.

By making it easier to bathe, walk, talk, read, travel, participate in recreational hobbies, and more, assistive technology can enhance individuals’ lives and promote independence. Those who use assistive technology may include individuals with hearing, voice, speech, or language disorders; autism; and impaired mobility.

Innovations in assistive technology have made these products increasingly accessible; they’re now commonly found in not only schools, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities but also workplaces, private homes, and public spaces. For example, libraries typically house large print books for individuals with visual impairments, and hotels and apartments offer rooms equipped with grab bars, toilet risers, and shower chairs to enhance daily living for those with limited mobility.

5 Types of Assistive Technology

Below are the most common types of assistive technologies, grouped by the needs that they address.

Cognitive Tools and Devices

Cognitive assistive technology products are used to support tasks requiring memory, concentration, organization, decision-making, and attention. Individuals using these aids may have experienced a brain injury, dementia, a mental health condition, or some form of intellectual disability.

Examples:

• Talking watches
• Fitness trackers
• Application-based interactive calendars
• Reminder applications
• Automated pill dispensers
• Specialized learning tools

Visual Tools and Devices

For individuals with low vision or blindness, visual assistive technology products offer real-time navigation and access to information.

Examples:

• Magnifying glasses
• Braille displays
• Smart glasses
• GPS systems
• Audiobooks
• Screen readers
• Visual keyboards
• Voice-operated applications

Hearing Tools and Devices

For individuals who are deaf or have hearing impairments, assistive technology plays a crucial role by amplifying sounds or providing visual or tactile alternatives.

Examples:

• Hearing aids
• Cochlear implants
• Frequency modulation (FM) systems
• Closed captioning
• Real-time transcription applications
• Alerting device (doorbell, telephone, alarm)

Verbal Communication Tools and Devices

Verbal communication assistive technology products are also known as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. They can especially be helpful for those with autism or speech impairments caused by injury or illness.

Examples:

• Text-to-speech software
• Teletype (TTY) devices
• Picture boards
• Speech generating devices
• Touch screens

Mobility Tools and Devices

Mobility assistive technology products help individuals with physical impairments due to injury, illness, or birth defect.

Examples:

• Canes
• Walkers
• Crutches
• Prosthetics
• Leg braces
• Computer mounting devices
• Stair lifts

Benefits of Pursuing a Career in Assistive Technology

Some individuals use assistive technology tools independently, while others opt for professional guidance to help them learn how to use a tool properly. Careers such as assistive technology specialist are common across multiple work environments. They may work under supervision or as the primary point of contact for questions regarding the use, troubleshooting, and maintenance of the tools.

Having professional experience in a patient-facing role, such as a nurse or therapist, is quite useful in this career. The reason is that specialists work closely with clients — evaluating, training, and demonstrating various tools. They may also perform administrative tasks, communicate with stakeholders, provide technical support, attend meetings, and design training.

The core benefits of pursuing an assistive technology career include the following:

• Meaningful work: Specialists help improve independence and support the development and communication skills of many vulnerable populations.
• Consistent and growing demand: The need for assistive technology — and professionals who are knowledgeable about and comfortable with it — is only growing.
• Diverse career paths: Education and experience in assistive technology can open the door to working with children or adults. Professionals in this field may work in person or remotely in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, nonprofits, or private companies. They may be teachers, consultants, therapists, and more.

Build Your Assistive Technology Career With a Master’s Degree

With the numerous types of assistive technology, individuals with limitations can perform tasks that would otherwise be difficult across all facets of their lives, including school, work, recreation, and daily activities. A career in this field offers a high degree of flexibility and transferable skills that can benefit various sectors, including education, technology, health, and engineering.

At the Tseng College at California State University, Northridge, students can expand their expertise in the field by earning a Master of Science in Assistive Technology Studies and Human Services. The online program can be completed in about two years of full-time study. It addresses topics such as development of delivery protocols and understanding product functionality. Graduates may pursue roles as recreation therapists, special education teachers, technology coordinators, adaptive sports coordinators, or assistive technology consultants, among others.

Discover how the assistive technology master’s degree program can help you achieve your career goals.