Assistive technology and equipment includes any device or piece of equipment that can be used to help a person perform an activity or improve their ability to function. It may also have been altered in some way to make it easier to use.

For adults with CP, there are many types of assistive devices and equipment available, which can help to:

• improve communication, hearing and mobility
• support participation in more sport and recreation activities
• improve learning and academic performance
• support working and career goals
• make socialising easier
• provide greater independence, self-sufficiency and self-confidence.

If you would like to know about which assistive technology and equipment might help to improve your quality of life, talk to your GP about a referral to an allied health professional, such as a speech pathologist, physiotherapist or occupational therapist. They can provide you with a comprehensive assessment, and then work out the best technology and equipment for you to use.

As you age, things can change for you and technologies are constantly improving, so it is a good idea to keep up to date with anything that might make things easier for you, by getting regular assessments and advice from your healthcare team.

Some examples of assistive technology and equipment that can help with your activities of daily living include:

• tables that can be moved up and down in height
• non-slip mats and rugs
• aids to help with dressing
• aids to support positioning in bed, on couches or in chairs
• eating utensils that have special grips or are weighted, and plates and bowls with non-slip bottoms
• safety bars, bath chairs, commodes and bathing benches in the bathroom
• brushes and sponges that have longer handles
• adaptive pens, scissors and art supplies.

For adults with CP who do not speak or have limited speech, there are many high-tech communication systems available to help improve communication, including touch screens, smart phones, iPads, speech-generating systems, communication boards and electronic keyboards.

Walkers and non-electric wheelchairs are quite low-tech and can be effective in supporting your mobility. Electric wheelchairs can help if you are struggling to use your arms and hands, as they can be driven using a simple button or joystick. A power scooter is another option to help you get around.

There are now more opportunities for adults with CP to be able to drive a car, as assistive technology and equipment has evolved. The ability to drive can give you a sense of freedom. It enables you to travel to and from a job, socialise, or pursue hobbies, although all of those things are still possible without a vehicle.

Driving a conventional vehicle may not be possible for you, simply because the location of controls or how they are operated is not a good fit with your abilities. Occupational therapists specialising in driver assessment and rehabilitation can give you advice about how to modify your vehicle.

A modified vehicle includes equipment that is designed to allow you to enter, exit and drive the vehicle in a way that meets your needs. In some cases, equipment like hand controls or wheelchair lifts are installed, or the controls and equipment are relocated within the vehicle. Any modifications should make it easy for you to operate the vehicle and observe the rules of the road in a way that is safe.

If you are starting a new job, it is a good idea to talk to your employer about what you might need put in place to be successful. Check your new workplace is accessible for you, and ask your healthcare team about what assistive technology and equipment could support you in your career.

An occupational therapist or physiotherapist can provide advice about assistive technology, home modifications, aids and equipment, suggest ideas to help with mobility, and make sure your environment, whether it is home, work, study or social, has the facilities and processes in place to support your needs.