What is the Difference Between Assistive and Enabling Technology?

Since the events surrounding 2020, there has been a significant rise in providers’ interest in remote monitoring. Further, there has been a broader acceptance and use of the term “enabling technology” when it comes to remote supports.

But what IS the difference between “assistive” and “enabling” technology?

Here is a brief explanation to help you understand the difference:

Enabling Technology
Enabling technology refers to any type of technology that enhances the overall capabilities of individuals, regardless of whether they have disabilities or not. The primary goal of enabling tech is to provide tools, systems, or devices that improve the quality of life, improve efficiency, and increase independence for its users. It aims to empower individuals to perform tasks more effectively/efficiently; increasing their productivity and access to information.

Examples of enabling technology include smartphones, tablets, wearables, apps and computer software and any other technology that can be used to enhance the lives of people with disabilities.

Assistive Technology
Assistive technology, on the other hand, specifically focuses on helping individuals with disabilities overcome functional limitations. The primary purpose of assistive technology is to address specific challenges faced by people with disabilities and make it easier for them to participate in daily life, recreation, education and work.

Assistive technologies include: mobility aids, screen readers, braille displays, hearing aids, adaptive keyboards, mouse alternatives and the like.

In summary, enabling technology is designed to benefit a broad user-base and improve overall capabilities, while assistive technology is specifically tailored to address the needs of individuals with disabilities and help them overcome barriers to participation.

Here at CreateAbility, we build enabling technology. We are so pleased to see many of our states here in the U.S. adopting the correct terms and developing waivers/funding terms that address an individual’s need for each type of technology.

Should you need enabling technology that address task prompting, career exploration and discovery, person-centered planning, behavioral health and health & wellbeing solutions, please use the chat function below to speak to a CreateAbility representative!