Low-cost assistive technology

Assistive technology

Simple, lower-cost equipment that supports independence, such as adapted utensils, grab rails, alarms and other everyday aids.

The short answer

Low-cost assistive technology is simple, everyday equipment that supports independence, such as adapted utensils, grab rails, alarms and magnifiers.

About Low-cost assistive technology

Not all assistive technology is complex or expensive. Many effective aids are simple: easy-grip handles, jar openers, pill organisers, large-print clocks, bath boards, non-slip mats and personal alarms. They solve everyday problems at home, and can make tasks safer, faster or possible.

Because these items are widely available, people often buy them without advice. That works for many, but an occupational therapist can help you choose well, especially if you are not sure what will suit. They can also suggest changes to how you do a task that reduce the need for equipment.

Where you buy matters. Specialist suppliers and pharmacies stock a range of aids and can often offer advice, and some general retailers carry useful items. Check returns, read reviews and be cautious about anything that claims to fix everything.

Who is this service for?

People who could benefit from simple, lower-cost aids that support independence at home and in the community.

What a typical session looks like

Low-cost assistive technology covers everyday items that make tasks easier, such as adapted cutlery, phone stands, simple communication aids, timers, pill organisers, non-slip mats, magnifiers and basic mobility aids. Choosing something usually involves talking about the tasks you find hard, trying a few options and deciding what works.

Because these items are simple, it is easy to start using them right away. A therapist, supplier or support worker can show you how to set them up, and it helps to keep the ones that help and change or drop the ones that do not. Small items can make a big difference to comfort, safety and independence.

Who delivers this support

You can often choose low-cost items yourself, and occupational therapists, suppliers, pharmacists and support workers can help with advice. A therapist is useful if you are not sure what is best or if the task is complex. Retailers that specialise in disability equipment usually have staff who can explain how items work.

How to choose a provider

Questions to ask a provider

Common mistakes to avoid

Getting started

  1. Identify the everyday tasks that cause difficulty.
  2. Ask a therapist or supplier about simple aids that might help.
  3. Try one or two items and see how they work.
  4. Add or swap items as your needs change.

How it fits with the rest of your plan

Low-cost items complement more complex equipment and therapy. Sometimes a simple item solves a problem that would otherwise need more help, and at other times it works alongside larger supports. It is worth reviewing what you use every so often, since needs and available products change.

Eligibility

You can use NDIS funding for Low-cost assistive technology if it is included in your NDIS plan. The NDIS funds supports that are reasonable and necessary: they relate to your disability, help you pursue your goals and represent value for money. Not sure whether it is in your plan? Check your plan, or ask your planner, Local Area Coordinator or support coordinator. You can also arrange it privately.

Funding

Assistive technology is funded according to its cost and complexity: lower-cost items are usually paid from a Core budget, and higher-cost or more complex items from a Capital budget, sometimes needing an assessment or quote. Your planner or an assistive technology advisor can explain how this applies to Low-cost assistive technology. Whether your plan is managed by the NDIA, by a plan manager or by you, ask for a written quote and a service agreement before you start. If your plan is plan-managed or self-managed you can use providers who are not registered with the NDIS. If it is NDIA-managed you generally need a registered provider.

What it costs

Equipment prices vary widely with the type of item and how it is set up for you. Ask for a written quote that separates the item, fitting and training, and for information about warranty and servicing for Low-cost assistive technology. Before you start, ask for a written quote that lists each support, the hours and the price, and check it against the current NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits on the NDIS website. A provider may charge less than a limit. If you pay privately, the provider sets its own fees. Plan-managed and self-managed participants can also use providers who are not registered, and those providers set their own prices.

Assistive technology & equipment providers on the NDIS register

4,258 NDIS providers list assistive technology & equipment supports on the NDIS Commission register of registered providers. A register listing shows what the register says, not who has capacity.

Providers listing assistive technology & equipment

See all 4,258 assistive technology & equipment providers

Listings by state and territory

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Checking credentials

Regulation and safeguards

NDIS providers and their workers must follow the NDIS Code of Conduct, and registered providers are regulated by the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission.

Related services

Frequently asked questions

What is low-cost assistive technology?

Simple, everyday items that make tasks easier, such as adapted utensils, grab rails, alarms, magnifiers and pill organisers.

Do I need an assessment before buying simple aids?

Often not for simple items, though advice from an occupational therapist can help you choose well. Ask if you are unsure what will suit you.

Where can I buy it?

From specialist suppliers, pharmacies and some general retailers. Check returns and warranty, and ask for advice if you are unsure.

Do I need a therapist to buy low-cost items?

Not always, but advice helps you avoid buying things that do not suit.

Can simple aids be safe for older people?

Yes. Items such as grab rails and non-slip mats reduce the risk of falls, but they should be installed and used correctly.

Are cheap items lower quality?

Not necessarily, but it is worth checking reviews and warranty before you buy.

Do I need a professional to recommend low-cost equipment?

Not for simple items, but advice from an occupational therapist is useful when you are unsure or the task is complex or risky.

Where can I find low-cost assistive technology?

Pharmacies, disability equipment retailers, larger stores and online suppliers stock a range. A therapist or your provider can suggest what to look for.

Are cheap items less reliable?

Not necessarily, but check quality and safety, particularly for items that bear weight or affect your health.

Can I use my NDIS plan to pay for Low-cost assistive technology?

If Low-cost assistive technology is in your NDIS plan and is reasonable and necessary for you, then yes. Check with your planner, Local Area Coordinator or support coordinator. You can also arrange it privately.

How do I find a Low-cost assistive technology provider near me?

Browse providers on SolDirectory, or send a free enquiry with your location and what you need and suitable providers will review it. Then ask each one about availability, a quote and a service agreement before you decide. Details come from providers and registers, so confirm them directly.

Sources and further reading

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