Types of Assistive Devices Available
The ADWC program offers multiple categories of assistive devices based on your medical condition. Here's a comprehensive breakdown:
A. MOBILITY DEVICES
1. Manual Wheelchairs (Active Use)
- For: Adults with arm strength to propel themselves
- Weight: 10-12 kg
- Durability: 5+ years
- Features: Lightweight aluminum frame, comfortable seat, good maneuverability
- Best for: Indoor and outdoor use, daily activities
- Training needed: Minimal
2. Pediatric (Children's) Wheelchairs
- For: Children aged 5-17 years
- Weight: 8-10 kg
- Features: Smaller frame, adjustable to grow with child
- Durability: Can last 3-5 years before outgrowing
- Best for: School, home, mobility around community
- Note: May need replacement as child grows
3. Electric/Motorized Wheelchairs
- For: Persons unable to self-propel, severe mobility limitations
- Weight: 20-30 kg
- Battery: Rechargeable lithium, range 20-30 km
- Features: Joystick control, electronic braking, stability
- Durability: 5-7 years
- Training needed: Moderate (basic operation)
- Best for: Outdoor travel, longer distances, less physical effort
4. Commode Wheelchairs
- For: Persons with special medical needs
- Features: Integrated toilet seat, commode functionality
- Best for: Home care, medical facility use
- Suitable for: Bedridden persons with mobility needs
B. HEARING DEVICES
5. Hearing Aids
- For: Persons with hearing loss or deafness
- Types: Behind-the-ear (BTE), In-the-ear (ITE), Completely-in-the-canal
- Features: Digital technology, noise reduction, wireless connectivity
- Battery life: 3-7 days per charge
- Durability: 4-5 years
- Training needed: Yes - hearing aid orientation
6. Cochlear Implants
- For: Severe hearing loss where hearing aids insufficient
- Surgical procedure: Implantation in ear
- Durability: 15+ years
- External component replacement: Every 5 years
- Training needed: Extensive - speech therapy, sound processing
C. VISION AIDS
7. Mobility Canes
- For: Blind or visually impaired persons
- White canes: For blind users
- Durability: 3-5 years
- Training needed: Yes - orientation and mobility training included
8. Screen Readers & Audio Devices
- For: Blind persons who use computers
- Screen reader software: Converts text to audio
- Audio description devices: For TV/media
- Training needed: Yes - technology training provided
D. ADAPTIVE EQUIPMENT
9. Crutches
- For: Temporary or permanent mobility limitation
- Types: Underarm, forearm, Lofstrand
- Durability: 2-3 years
- Training: Quick orientation
10. Walkers
- For: Balance support, partial weight bearing
- Types: 2-wheel, 3-wheel, 4-wheel with seat
- Durability: 3-5 years
- Best for: Elderly, post-recovery, weak mobility