assistireland.ie is a website developed by the Citizens Information Board with information on assistive technology and aids and appliances available in Ireland. The purpose of the resource is for a user to be able to search the website for a particular device or product, or browse through the 6,000 products currently included, find out what is available and who supplies it. The database will be of particular interest to people with disabilities and older people but should also be helpful for health professionals, service providers, etc.

The website has two main areas; a ‘Products Directory’, and an ‘Information for Independent Living’ section. The Products Directory is broken down into 20 categories such as Personal Care, Walking and Standing Devices and Eating and Drinking, which are further divided into sub-categories. Each product included in the database has a title, description, any relevant measurements/specifications, and most are accompanied with a product image. Each product entry also lists the supplier/s of that product and, if the user wants to find out more, they can use the contact details provided for the supplier/s to get further information e.g. price, availability.

For people who want to find out more about assistive technology, the ‘Information for Independent Living’ section describes some of the types and various uses of assistive technology in different daily living situations which include Communication, Education, Employment, and In the Home. It also contains more than 30 Information Sheets to help people understand the many different types of equipment available and things to consider when choosing it e.g. Choosing a Shower and Accessories or Choosing Equipment to Get Up and Down Stairs.

Launched in June 2005, assistireland.ie (www.assistireland.ie) is supported by a telephone service (LoCall 1890 277 478) which operates during standard working hours and/or email: support@assistireland.ie.