Key takeaways  

  • Assistive technology can help people with Parkinson’s stay independent and safe while managing daily tasks. 
  • The right device should match your individual symptoms, goals, comfort level, and ability to use it consistently over time.  
  • Whether a product is Health Canada-approved as a medical device affects safety oversight, claims it can legally make, and whether it may be covered by public or private funding.  
  • Access and funding vary by province, and may combine public programs, private insurance, and tax credits.  
  • Working with your health care team is the most effective way to identify solutions that are safe, cost-effective, and tailored to your needs.  

 Assistive technology refers to any product, tool, or system that helps you do something more independently, safely, or comfortably in daily life. For people living with Parkinson’s, assistive technology can support mobility, communication, vision, hearing, and more.  

Assistive devices are often grouped into two categories:  

  • Low-tech:  Simple tools without electronics, such as weighted utensils, grab bars, non-slip mats, raised toilet seats, or pill organizers.   
  • High-tech: More advanced tools with digital features like a digital interface, motion sensors, apps, or smart features. Examples include laser-guided walking canes, smart medication dispensers, voice-to-text aids, or wearables that monitor freezing or tremor.  

While some assistive technology is made specifically for people with Parkinson’s, there are many tools and devices available for more general use that provide meaningful support.  

Where to start with assistive technology for Parkinson’s 

Begin by talking with your health care team. They can assess your needs and recommend tools suited to your specific symptoms and lifestyle. Depending on the support you need, this may include an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, speech-language pathologist, or neurologist.  

Many devices are also available through mobility and home health care equipment providers, as well as general retailers or online platforms.  

A prescription isn’t always required, but professional guidance helps ensure the product is safe, effective, and worth the investment.  

What to consider before choosing or buying assistive technology  

1. Your symptoms

This step is best done with your health care team. Connect with an occupational therapist, physiotherapist, or your movement disorder specialist/neurologist to set symptom management goals and get personalized technology recommendations.  

2. Your goals

Start with the specific challenge you want to address (tremor, freezing, medication challenges, speaking, etc.) Parkinson’s affects everyone differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Focus on your needs and goals, not the latest gadget. 

3. Ease of use

Some tools and devices can be tricky to set up or operate, especially if they require fine motor skills or a lot of problem solving. Consider how confident you feel using technology and whether you can manage it during symptom fluctuations. 

If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to your occupational therapist, physiotherapist, or movement disorders clinic. They may have demo technology you can try before you buy, so you can see what feels right. They can also connect you with an assistive device clinic in your area for more personalized advice and support. Costs vary widely, so be sure to discuss options that fit your symptoms, budget, and availability with your health care team. 

4. Evidence

Not all devices are clinically tested. Look for those with credible, real-world evidence. For example, has it been used in clinical trials, recommended by Parkinson’s organizations or your care team, or reviewed positively by others living with Parkinson’s?  If uncertain about a product’s safety or credibility, check with your health care team before purchasing. 

5. Privacy and data considerations

Apps and wearables may track movement, sleep, or medication timing, which is useful, but personal. Review privacy policies and data settings to ensure you’re comfortable with what’s shared.  

Access and cost in Canada

In Canada, the availability and funding of assistive technologies vary by province or territory and by how the product is regulated. 

If a device is classified as a medical device by Health Canada, it must meet safety and clinical evidence standards and is assigned a risk level, Class I (lowest risk) to IV (highest risk). These products may require an assessment or prescription from your health care team. Because of this regulation, these products are more likely to qualify for public funding, loan programs, or insurance reimbursement.  You can check Health Canada’s medical device database to confirm whether a product is licensed for use in Canada.  

In contrast, many assistive products are marketed as general wellness technologies, including some popular wearable devices, cueing tools, or consumer-grade laser products. These can be sold legally in Canada without being approved to treat Parkinson’s, but they cannot make medical claims and are typically not covered by provincial or private insurance. If a product makes claims to treat or improve Parkinson’s symptoms but is not listed in Health Canada’s database, it is likely making a false or misleading claim. See Parkinson Canada’s blog and webinar, “Dr. Google and how to spot Parkinson’s misinformation”, for more information on how to spot false claims and where to find accurate medical information.  

Cost-share funding programs 

Across Canada, some provincial and territorial programs help cover part or all of the cost of approved assistive technologies. These are often cost-share programs, meaning you may be responsible for paying a portion of the price and the program covers the rest. 

Examples include: 

  • Ontario: The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) typically covers up to 75% of the cost of approved devices such as mobility aids, communication tools, and some adaptive technologies. 
  • Alberta: The Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) program provides funding for medical equipment and supplies, with clients usually paying 25% of the cost (to a maximum amount per benefit year). 

Other provinces and territories may have similar programs, often through health authorities, disability supports, or workers’ compensation agencies. 

Some private insurance plans, veterans’ benefits, or charitable organizations may offer partial reimbursement or funding assistance for certain technologies. An occupational therapist, physiotherapist, or social worker can help you navigate which programs you qualify for and guide you through the application process. 

 Why does it sometimes feel like other countries have more options?  

The U.S., Europe, and the U.K. often approve or adopt new devices faster than Canada. This is because Canada has a smaller medical device market, slower approval cycles, and fewer local manufacturers, which can delay availability. It is normal, but understandably frustrating, to hear about devices elsewhere before they arrive here.  

The future of assistive technology 

Assistive technology for Parkinson’s is evolving rapidly, with smarter, more personalized tools emerging to support independence at every stage of the condition. In Canada, progress is being made toward approving medical devices that use artificial intelligence (AI), supported by research partnerships, pilot programs, and new funding models.  

While many innovations are still in development, the future looks bright for technology that helps people with Parkinson’s live more independently and confidently. 

This blog was reviewed by Roseleen John, MSc. OT, MSc. Neurosci 

More helpful resources

Access Assistive Tech Canada

A national portal to help find funding and service programs for assistive technology in Canada. Its database can be filtered by location, type of technology (e.g., mobility aids, communication devices), and eligibility criteria.  

Ask the expert – Occupational therapist webinar

Roseleen John, OT shares practical strategies to help people living with Parkinson’s maintain independence and improve their quality of life. 

Health Canada’s medical device database

Also known as the Medical Devices Active Licence Listing, is a searchable database of all Class II, III, and IV medical devices licensed for sale in Canada.