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

Accommodations for neurodivergent employees vary but can include flexible work arrangements, noise-canceling headphones, a desk assignment near a window or away from high-traffic areas, switching out lighting, or purchasing assistive technologies like text-to-speech software. —Paige McGlauflin, Fortune, 15 May 2024

Navigate your stay with the concierge service and special accommodations like cribs and highchairs and assistive devices for persons with disabilities — this resort’s elite service is why families keep coming back year after year. —Joe Niehaus, Travel + Leisure, 9 May 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