assistive

adjective

as·​sis·​tive ə-ˈsi-stiv 

: providing aid or assistance

specifically : designed or intended to assist disabled persons

assistive technology

Examples of assistive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Steven is a freelance tech journalist covering accessibility and assistive technologies, and is based in San Francisco. —Steven Aquino, Forbes, 21 Nov. 2024

When assistive devices are being developed, users of those devices are often involved late in the game or not at all. —Dana MacKenzie, Smithsonian Magazine, 23 Oct. 2024

Sign-in tables and voting booths must have adequate height clearance for voters using wheelchairs or other assistive devices. —Marley Malenfant, Austin American-Statesman, 21 Oct. 2024

In her third year at school, her current project — which brings fashion's most fun trends to assistive medical devices — began to take shape. —Angela Andaloro, People.com, 28 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

assist entry 1 + -ive

First Known Use

1771, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

assistive

adjective

as·​sist·​ive ə-ˈsis-tiv 

: providing aid or assistance

specifically : designed or intended to assist a disabled person in performing an activity, task, or function especially in an independent manner

assistive technology

Assistive devices help with the performance of daily activities. Most familiar are canes, crutches, and walkers. Other examples of simple assistive devices are raised toilet seats and firm pillows placed under the seats of chairs to help people with hip or knee arthritis to rise from a sitting position.

—Simeon Margolis, The Johns Hopkins White Pages

With some assistive devices, the visually impaired can do a variety of office jobs, using computers and telephones.

—Eric Aasen, The Dallas Morning News

Assistive technology (AT) by its very nature consists of a variety of personal and customized tools for multiple learning styles and physical challenges.

—Kelly Ahrens, Learning & Leading with Technology