Assistive technologies in the home.

Assistive technologies are critical to elders maintaining independence in the home. Adequate assessment of the patient's needs, the appropriateness of the device to that need, and the patient's motivation to use of a device is required for successful outcomes. A team approach is needed to ensure that devices are correctly prescribed, and the patient is taught how to use it effectively. A wide range of devices is available to support activities of daily living, mobility, home management, and safety. The use of personal computers is significantly expanding the possibility of independent living through support systems, monitoring systems, and information resources.