The term "assistive technology devices" is used to describe products which are designed to provide additional accessibility to people with physical or cognitive difficulties, impairments and disabilities. In most cases the terms "assistive devices" and "adaptive devices" are used interchangeably to describe assistive, adaptive, rehabilitative gadgets and/or equipment which are designed for the benefit of people living with disabilities, and this description also includes the process of selecting, locating, and using these devices.

In general, assistive devices promote greater independence by enabling people with disabilities to perform tasks that they were formerly unable to accomplish, and this is achieved by adding enhancements to or changing the methods of interacting with the technology needed to accomplish such tasks.

There are different types of assistive devices ranging from a simple spoon build-up to high tech computer devices. Though there are differences in the types of assistive technology devices their unifying factor is that they are compensatory, they foster autonomy, and above all, they help persons with disabilities to fit and live better in the community. Assistive devices are grouped into different categories i.e. alternative computer input devices, daily living, communication, sensory, mobility, environmental control systems, home/work site modifications, seating and position aids, and finally leisure time and recreational adaptations. Adaptive devices are all geared at enabling people living with physical disabilities to perform daily routines and tasks with as little assistance as possible.

The type of adaptive devices used depends on the type and level of physical impairment and therefore there are different types of devices which are used to perform specific duties and tasks. Generally these devices help individuals to move around, see, eat, get dressed or undressed, and perform other daily tasks. Assistive technology devices generally help to improve the quality of life for the disabled and they help them to maintain an increased sense of independence. An assistive device could be a wheel chair, a reaching device, or even a disability product which allows an individual to use a computer. These devices are not only limited to use by people with physical impairments though. They can also be used by anyone else who experiences difficulties in performing certain tasks.

Everyday advances in technology are continually pointing to new ideas for making even better assistive technology devices and new developments are continuously emerging. The existing assistive technology devices are continuously being updated to improve on their efficiency and ease of use. As the demand for adaptive devices increases, more and more products are being developed, and all this has been brought about by the desire of physically impaired people to take more charge of their day to day activities.