What is Impairment Categories

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (http://www.hhs.gov) provides three categories of impairments with varying assistive technology needs. The Mildly Impaired category (e.g., mild arthritis) benefits from assistive technologies that enhance independent living. This may include special devices such as grab bars and modified cooking utensils. The second category, Moderately Impaired, include those who are functionally impaired in several daily living activities. For example, a person with arthritis may also have diabetes with circulation problems. Assistive technology supplements other types of support systems (e.g., home caregiver) in order to promote independent living. The third category, Severely Impaired, probably will benefit the most from emerging technologies. These individuals have multiple impairments that impact daily living.

Emerging Technologies for Aging in Place

Shirley Ann Becker (Florida Institute of Technology, USA) and Frank Webbe (Florida Institute of Technology, USA)