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Assistive technology for sports

Disabilities shouldn't limit the things you enjoy doing. Many type of devices make it possible to engage in sports and other physical activities. Tools that help people with disabilities lead more independent lives are known as assistive technology. Below are some of the assistive technology devices for sports:

• Light-weight wheelchairs for basketball, tennis, and racing
• All-terrain wheelchairs with rugged frames and wheels for rolling over unpaved surfaces, like hiking trails
• Softballs that beep, so the blind can play. The beeper makes a loud sound which the players use to locate the ball to hit and field.
• Handcycles, which are like bicycles but you pedal and steer using only your arms
• Cross-country sit skis that allow you to sit down and push yourself along the trail with tips that dig into the snow
• Basketballs with jingle bells inside for people who are blind or have low vision

Check out ABLEDATA to learn about tools that can help with sports and other activities.

Content last updated October 21, 2009

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