Funktionshilfen

Funktionshilfen, also known as assistive devices or aids, are tools, equipment, or modifications that help individuals with functional limitations perform daily activities and improve their independence. They are designed to compensate for impairments in physical, sensory, or cognitive domains and can range from simple items such as canes and hearing aids to complex technologies like voice‑activated home systems.

The primary goal of Funktionshilfen is to reduce barriers in the environment and to enable users to carry out tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. They are frequently classified by the level of support they provide: mobility aids (wheelchairs, walkers), personal care aids (grabbers, shower seats), communication aids (speech generators, augmentative communication boards), and assistive technologies for work or learning (screen readers, adapted keyboards). Each device is chosen based on an individual assessment of needs, lifestyle, and the specific functional deficits.

In many countries, including Germany, the provision of Funktionshilfen is supported by legal frameworks that guarantee access to suitable equipment. Applicants often undergo an assessment by a habilitation specialist or occupational therapist to determine eligibility. Approved devices may be covered partially or fully by health insurance, social security, or disability benefits. The procurement process typically involves applying to a local health department or disability service, receiving a recommendation, and then obtaining the equipment either from suppliers or through rental agreements.

The use of Funktionshilfen is an important component of rehabilitation, inclusive design, and social participation. By adapting both the environment and the individual's interaction with it, these aids promote autonomy, safety, and quality of life for people with various functional limitations.