Assistive technology and equipment include 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 older 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 leisure and recreation activities
• 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 healthcare team. A speech pathologist, physiotherapist or occupational therapist 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.

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.

One of the main goals for using assistive technology and equipment that is designed with ageing in mind is to reduce your reliance on other people and the care system, so you can stay in your home safely for longer.

Some of the types of technology and equipment that can help with this include:

• personal alarms, telecare systems and GPS trackers – wearable devices and sensors that mean help is only the push of a button away, or an alarm is triggered when they detect something is not right, alerting a close contact you choose or a monitoring team
• memory aids – designed to help remind you to remember everyday things, such as feeding a pet or taking your medication
• communication aids – designed to keep you connected to your family and friends, such as accessible mobile phones
• visual aids and screen readers – which can help if you struggle to see and navigate your computer, tablet or smartphone.

There may be options for funding to help you with purchasing assistive technology and equipment. Talk to your healthcare team, local council, My Aged Care and the National Disability Insurance Scheme about your options.

Your occupational therapist or physiotherapist can help with this and provide advice about the best assistive technology, home modifications, aids and equipment, suggest ideas to help with your mobility, and make sure your environment has the facilities and processes in place to support your needs.