Assistive device (AD) refers to any item, piece of equipment, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities (PWD). AD can help improve physical or mental functioning, alleviate a disorder or impairment, prevent the worsening of a condition, and improve a person’s capacity to learn, or replace a missing limb. ADs for ambulation have been used since the Neolithic period. Currently there are over 650 million PWD worldwide (comprising 10% of the world's population), of whom 80% live in low-income countries. Only 2% to 5% of PWD in countries like India have access to the necessary rehabilitation services, including AD, and the consequent improved accessibility in society.

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