{"id":95288,"date":"2026-11-11T17:01:48","date_gmt":"2026-11-12T00:01:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/?p=95288"},"modified":"2026-11-11T17:01:48","modified_gmt":"2026-11-12T00:01:48","slug":"adaptive-devices-living-aids-for-greater-independence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.uchealth.org\/today\/adaptive-devices-living-aids-for-greater-independence\/","title":{"rendered":"Adaptive devices can make daily living tasks, like dressing, bathing and eating, easier for older adults"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Adaptive tools, such as a reacher, can help people pull clothing over their feet and get dressed independently. An occupational therapist can work with older adults to create an individualized plan for completing everyday tasks. Photo: Getty Images.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Adaptive devices can help people live longer on their own and stay safer while doing so.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen we think of someone being independent, we think of them being able to do their daily activities,\u201d said Joe Mooney<\/a>, an occupational therapist with UCHealth SportsMed Clinic in Steamboat Springs<\/a>. \u201cFor many people who are older or have some physical limitations, adaptive devices allow them to age in place in their home, and perhaps more importantly, do it in the safest way possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

What are adaptive devices?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Adaptive devices, also called adaptive equipment or daily living aids, help people complete everyday living activities such as dressing, bathing, eating and preparing meals.<\/p>\n

Learn about the keys to longevity for older adults<\/a> and how to age in place<\/a>. <\/div>\n

Mooney said good examples are devices that help someone put on their socks and shoes. Without them, a person would be at a greater risk of falling<\/a> in their home, perhaps breaking a hip, which may land them in the hospital and then in a rehab center.<\/p>\n

He said adaptive devices can help with taking daily medication, grooming activities, cooking a meal, cleaning a home and managing activities.<\/p>\n

\u201cUsing this type equipment gives people a sense of autonomy and confidence,\u201d said Mooney. \u201cPerhaps you can\u2019t drive anymore, but you can get yourself dressed, showered and make a meal. That\u2019s huge for someone\u2019s independence and feeling of self-worth.\u201d<\/p>\n

Daily living aids that can help older adults stay independent<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Here are the most common adaptive devices and how they can assist people in everyday tasks.<\/p>\n

Dressing aids:<\/strong><\/h3>\n