Assistive Devices
Assistive Devices are tools, equipment, and products that help elderly or disabled individuals perform daily activities more easily and independently. These can range from simple items like walkers and hearing aids to more complex equipment like electric wheelchairs and medical alert systems. In healthcare jobs, particularly in geriatric care, experience with assistive devices means knowing how to properly help clients use, maintain, and select appropriate support equipment for their needs. Similar terms include "adaptive equipment," "mobility aids," or "medical support devices."
Examples in Resumes
Trained seniors in proper use of Assistive Devices including walkers and mobility aids
Documented and monitored client progress with Adaptive Equipment usage
Coordinated with physical therapists to implement Assistive Devices and Mobility Aids programs for 20+ residents
Typical job title: "Geriatric Care Assistants"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Geriatric Care Assistants
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you train new staff members on proper assistive device protocols?
Expected Answer: A senior caregiver should explain their process for teaching proper lifting techniques, device selection, safety protocols, and how they ensure consistent quality of care across their team.
Q: How do you determine when a client needs to transition to different assistive devices?
Expected Answer: They should discuss assessment methods, collaboration with healthcare team members, observation of client mobility changes, and how they document and communicate these needs.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What safety checks do you perform on assistive devices?
Expected Answer: Should describe regular maintenance checks, cleaning procedures, when to report problems, and basic troubleshooting of common issues with various devices.
Q: How do you encourage resistant clients to use their assistive devices?
Expected Answer: Should discuss patience, education techniques, demonstrating benefits, ensuring comfort, and working with family members to encourage proper device use.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the most common types of assistive devices you've worked with?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list and describe basic devices like walkers, canes, wheelchairs, and bathroom safety equipment, plus basic usage guidelines.
Q: How do you ensure client safety when using assistive devices?
Expected Answer: Should mention checking equipment condition, proper positioning, clear pathways, and following facility protocols for assistance levels.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-1 years)
- Basic knowledge of common assistive devices
- Understanding of safety protocols
- Basic client assistance techniques
- Documentation of device usage
Mid (1-3 years)
- Advanced device troubleshooting
- Client training on device use
- Safety assessment skills
- Emergency response procedures
Senior (3+ years)
- Staff training and supervision
- Complex needs assessment
- Care plan development
- Quality assurance monitoring
Red Flags to Watch For
- No hands-on experience with common assistive devices
- Lack of knowledge about basic safety protocols
- Poor understanding of mobility assistance techniques
- No experience with documentation or reporting
- Unfamiliarity with fall prevention strategies
