Home Care Devices

Defining "Home Care Devices"

A home care device, synonymous with the terms durable medical equipment, assistive device or assistive technology, is any tool, product or type of device used in a person's home that serves to restore lost function as a result of disease, disability, impairment or handicap. Home care devices allow people to move, see or hear better; have an easier time eating or getting dressed; breathe better; eliminate body waste despite loss of physiological function; and perform activities with less supervision and more independence.

There are as many home care devices as there are functions of the various parts of the human body. Each body system may have a corresponding assistive device, and there are many examples found in everyday life. The best-known would be a hearing aid for the hearing impaired. Those having difficulty breathing as a result of respiratory disease may have oxygen tanks, iron lungs and other breathing apparatuses. A peritoneal dialysis rig can substitute for kidney function without the use of a more complicated hemodialysis machine. Wheelchairs, crutches, walkers, canes, reachers, orthotics and prosthetics help those with mobility problems. Adapted plates and bowls, pivot spoons and specialized cups help individuals who have problems feeding. Speech-recognition software and text-to-speech applications help individuals with various communication deficits communicate effectively.

Home care devices, home medical equipment or assistive devices help individuals gain independence by restoring loss of function. This leads to individuals' being less dependent upon caregivers and health-care institutions like hospitals and medical clinics. Less time spent on hospital visits and asking for assistance provides more time for such people to pursue activities that they actually would like or need to do, such as activities of daily living, leisure activities and even work.

Home care devices cater to very specific needs, so it is very important to obtain consultation before deciding on getting one. Prescriptions for specific home care devices are usually obtained from physicians; occupational, speech and physical therapists; and other experts in rehabilitation science. For assistive devices, an assistive technology assessment is usually needed in order to prescribe the appropriate home care device. Bear in mind that incorrect home care devices can lead to dangerous results, which is why an assessment from a health-care professional is necessary prior to purchasing any home care device.