These are external products for personal use, such as devices, equipment, instruments, or computer programmes that facilitate mobility, communication, or performing every day tasks. They allow people with disabilities to improve or compensate reduced functionality or prevent and mitigate future loss in function.
These instruments, equipment, or technical systems greatly contribute to enabling independent living because they allow people with disabilities to conduct tasks, promoting their autonomy, well-being, and the exercise of their rights.
For example, people with hearing disability might use hearing aids, cochlear implants, frequency modulation systems, and bone conduction systems or osseointegrated systems (INSOR, n.d.).
This is also known as Assistive Technology.
References:
Sección de Participación, Género e Inclusión. (n.d.). Recomendaciones. Uso de Lenguaje Inclusivo. Persona en situación de discapacidad. Retrieved from Gobierno de Chile: P. 6.
Palacios, A., & Romañach, J. (n.d.). El modelo de la diversidad. La Bioética y los Derechos Humanos como herramientas para alcanzar la plena dignidad en la diversidad funcional. España: Ediciones Diversitas – AIES.
INSOR. (n.d.). Preguntas Frecuentes.
WHO (n.d.). Lista de ayudas técnicas prioritarias.
Photo credit: Chona Kasinger