6 Types of Assistive Technology (and How They Support Independence)

Assistive technology (AT) is any tool, device, or system designed to help people with disabilities live more independently, safely, and confidently. It’s not just about high-tech gadgets or specialised medical equipment — assistive technology covers everything from simple aids like grab rails and jar openers to advanced mobility devices, communication tools, and smart home systems.

The goal of AT is simple but powerful: to make everyday life easier. Whether it’s helping someone move around their home, communicate more effectively, manage personal care, or participate in work and social activities, the right assistive technology can make a huge difference to independence and quality of life.

In Australia, the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) recognises how vital this support can be. That’s why many types of assistive technology can be funded if they’re considered reasonable, necessary, and directly related to a participant’s disability. This makes it possible for more people to access the equipment they need without financial barriers.

So, what are the main types of assistive technology that can be funded under the NDIS — and how exactly do they support independence? Let’s break down the six key categories of assistive tech you should know about.

1. Mobility aids

Mobility aids are one of the most widely used forms of assistive technology — and for good reason. They support people with physical disabilities or mobility challenges to move more safely, independently, and confidently in their daily lives. These devices range from simple walking supports to highly specialised equipment designed for complex mobility needs.

Some of the most common types of mobility aids include:

1. Walking frames and rollators 

Provide balance and support for those with reduced strength or stability.

2. Manual and powered wheelchairs

Offer mobility and independence for people with limited or no ability to walk.

3. Mobility scooters

Allow users to travel longer distances outdoors without fatigue.

4. Transfer aids and hoists

Help with moving safely between positions — for example, from bed to chair or wheelchair to toilet.

How mobility aids fit into NDIS support

Under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), mobility aids are considered a type of assistive technology and may be funded if they are deemed reasonable and necessary to help a participant achieve their daily living goals. This means the device must directly relate to the person’s disability and improve their independence or participation in everyday life.

Mobility-related supports under the NDIS are typically divided into three key categories:

• Core supports: Everyday assistance that helps participants with daily tasks and mobility.
  
• Capacity building supports: Equipment or services that build independence and functional skills.
  
• Capital supports: Larger, more specialised assistive technology items — such as powered wheelchairs, scooters, or vehicle modifications.

The NDIS also recognises that assistive technology can range from low-cost, low-risk products (under $1,500, such as simple walking aids) to higher-cost items that require assessments, prescriptions, or professional fitting (such as complex wheelchairs or specialised scooters).

2. Communication aids

Communication aids are another crucial category of assistive technology. They’re designed to help people who have difficulty with speech, language, hearing, or writing express themselves, understand others, and engage more fully in daily life. Whether it’s chatting with friends, communicating medical needs, or participating in education or work, these tools can be life-changing.

Communication aids come in many forms, from simple, low-tech options to advanced, technology-driven solutions:

1. Low-tech aids

Communication boards, picture cards, and symbol books that allow users to point, gesture, or select words and images.

2. Speech-generating devices (SGDs): 

Electronic devices that produce spoken words when a user types or selects symbols.

3. Text-to-speech apps and software: 

Turn written text into spoken words, often used on tablets or smartphones.

4. Hearing support technology: 

Amplifiers, hearing aids, and FM systems that improve hearing and communication in noisy environments.

5. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems: 

A broad category that includes any method used to supplement or replace spoken language.

How communication aids fit into NDIS

The NDIS recognises communication as a fundamental part of independence and quality of life. As such, communication aids are often funded when they are deemed reasonable and necessary to support a participant’s goals.

Just like mobility aids, they may fall under:

• Capacity building supports: For therapies, training, and skill development related to communication.
  
• Capital supports: For devices and equipment like SGDs, hearing technology, or specialised software.
  
• Core supports: For everyday assistance that may include communication support services.

The cost and complexity of communication aids vary widely. Low-cost tools like communication boards might not require professional assessment, while more advanced systems such as custom AAC devices or SGDs typically require evaluation by a speech pathologist or allied health professional before funding is approved.

3. Daily living aids

Daily living aids are some of the most practical and widely used types of assistive technology. These tools are designed to make everyday tasks — like dressing, cooking, bathing, or managing personal hygiene — easier, safer, and more independent for people with physical, cognitive, or sensory disabilities.

They range from simple household items to more specialised devices, and often don’t require advanced technology to have a big impact. Examples include:

1. Kitchen aids 

Jar openers, adaptive utensils, non-slip mats, and easy-grip cookware that make food prep and meals more manageable.

2. Bathroom and personal care tools 

Grab rails, shower chairs, long-handled sponges, and dressing aids that reduce the risk of falls and improve safety during personal care.

3. Household tools 

Reachers and grabbers, adjustable tables, and easy-to-use light switches or plugs for improved independence around the home.

4. Medication management devices 

Pill organisers and reminder systems to help users stay on top of their health routines.

How daily living aids fit into NDIS

Under the NDIS, daily living aids often fall under Core supports or Capacity building supports because they’re directly linked to helping participants complete daily activities and live more independently.

These supports are considered reasonable and necessary if they:

• Address functional limitations caused by a person’s disability.
  
• Enable the participant to carry out essential tasks safely and independently.
  
• Reduce the need for ongoing support from carers or family members.

Many daily living aids also fall under the low-cost, low-risk assistive technology category, which means they may not require a professional assessment and can often be purchased directly using NDIS funds.

4. Sensory aids

Sensory aids are designed to support people with hearing, vision, or sensory processing difficulties, helping them interact more easily with the world around them. These devices can significantly improve quality of life by enhancing communication, mobility, safety, and overall independence.

They range from small, simple tools to highly advanced technologies, including:

1. Hearing aids and amplifiers

Devices that amplify sound and improve hearing clarity for people with hearing loss.

2. Cochlear implants

Surgically implanted devices that stimulate the auditory nerve and provide a sense of sound for people with severe hearing impairments.

3. Assistive listening systems (ALS) 

Such as FM or infrared systems, which improve sound quality in noisy environments like classrooms or theatres.

4. Vision aids

Magnifiers, screen readers, braille displays, and wearable electronic vision devices that assist people with low vision or blindness.

5. Alerting devices

Systems that use lights, vibrations, or alarms to notify users of sounds like doorbells, fire alarms, or baby monitors.

How sensory aids fit into NDIS

The NDIS recognises that sensory support is essential for communication, participation, and safety — so many sensory aids can be funded if they are considered reasonable and necessary for the participant’s needs.

• Hearing aids and cochlear implants may be funded for participants with hearing loss if recommended by an audiologist.
  
• Vision aids may require an assessment by an optometrist, orthoptist, or orientation and mobility specialist.
  
• Assistive technology for communication or safety (like alerting systems) may also be covered if they help participants live more independently or access the community.

The type of funding depends on the complexity and cost of the device. Low-cost, low-risk items like handheld magnifiers may be purchased directly, while higher-cost aids (like cochlear implants or braille displays) typically require assessments and written reports before funding is approved.

5. Cognitive and learning aids

Cognitive and learning aids are designed to support people with intellectual disabilities, acquired brain injuries, dementia, autism, or learning difficulties. These tools help users with thinking, memory, organisation, problem-solving, and communication — empowering them to live more independently and participate more fully in daily life.

Cognitive aids can range from simple memory tools to advanced technology that adapts to an individual’s specific needs. Common examples include:

1. Memory and reminder devices

Talking clocks, digital calendars, and medication reminders that help with time management and daily routines.

2. Visual schedules and planners

Assist with sequencing tasks, building independence, and reducing anxiety by making daily plans clear and predictable.

3. Task management apps and software

Tools that break tasks into manageable steps, track progress, and provide prompts or alerts.

4. Smart home devices

Voice assistants (like Google Nest or Alexa) that can give reminders, control appliances, and support routine management.

5. Reader pens

Handy handheld devices that scan printed text and read it aloud, helping people with dyslexia or visual processing difficulties improve literacy and comprehension.

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6. Specialised communication software

Helps individuals with cognitive challenges express needs, learn new skills, or communicate with support workers and family.

How cognitive and learning aids fit into NDIS

The NDIS recognises cognitive and learning supports as an important part of enabling participants to develop skills, build independence, and manage daily life. These aids are typically funded under Capacity building supports or Capital supports, depending on their complexity and cost.

For example:

• Low-cost, low-risk tools like visual planners, reminder devices, reader pens, or basic apps may be purchased directly without a professional assessment.
  
• High-cost or customised solutions, such as specialised software or smart home systems, often require assessment and recommendation from an allied health professional (such as an occupational therapist or psychologist).

These tools are particularly valuable for people who may struggle with tasks like remembering appointments, following routines, managing medications, or learning new skills.

Read related article: Supporting Reading Disabilities in Children Through Early Intervention

6. Environmental control aids

Environmental control aids are a powerful category of assistive technology that allow people with disabilities to interact with and control their surroundings more easily and independently. These devices range from simple switches to advanced smart home systems — all designed to reduce physical barriers and give users more autonomy in their daily lives.

They’re especially useful for people with limited mobility, dexterity, or cognitive function, as they remove the need for physical effort or complex actions to manage home environments.

Examples include:

1. Smart home systems

Voice-activated devices like Google Nest or Amazon Alexa that control lighting, appliances, doors, and entertainment systems.

2. Remote-control switches and plugs

Allow users to operate devices and equipment from a distance, such as turning lights on and off or adjusting a fan.

3. Automated doors, windows, and blinds

Make it easier to control ventilation, lighting, and security without needing physical strength or fine motor skills.

4. Environmental control units (ECUs)

More advanced systems that integrate multiple devices into one accessible control panel or interface, often customisable for the user’s needs.

How environmental control aids fit into NDIS

The NDIS recognises environmental control technologies as essential tools for independence, safety, and quality of life, particularly for participants with significant physical disabilities or mobility limitations.

These supports are usually funded under Capital supports, as they often involve more complex or higher-cost equipment. Assessments by occupational therapists or allied health professionals are typically required to ensure the chosen solutions are appropriate and tailored to the participant’s needs.

Some lower-cost options — like smart plugs or basic remote switches — may also fall under low-cost, low-risk assistive technology, meaning participants can purchase them directly without needing a detailed assessment.

Conclusion: Empowering Independence with the Right Assistive Technology

From mobility and communication aids to cognitive tools and environmental controls, each category plays a vital role in helping people with disabilities live more fully on their own terms. And thanks to the NDIS, accessing these supports is more achievable than ever.

It’s also important to understand how the NDIS classifies assistive technology by cost, as this determines what documentation you’ll need:

• Low-cost assistive technology: Items under $1,500 each. These are often simple, everyday aids that can be purchased directly without quotes.
  
• Mid-cost assistive technology: Items between $1,500 and $15,000. These require written evidence — such as an assessment or recommendation from a health professional — before funding is approved.
  
• High-cost assistive technology: Items over $15,000. These usually involve more complex assessments and detailed supporting documentation.

Understanding where your equipment fits within these categories can make the NDIS funding process much smoother.

If you’d like a deeper look into how assistive technology funding works — including eligibility, documentation, and step-by-step access — check out our full guide on how to access assistive technology through the NDIS.

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