16/01/2026
Assistive Device Upgrades — Closing Quality Gaps
Last December, I was in Superspar doing some groceries when I noticed one of the employees who was using an assistive device. His assistive device clearly wasn’t meeting his daily needs, and he didn’t hesitate to share how it affected his life.
Firstly he indicated that he cannot change shoes👞. Secondly, he cannot wear long pants 👖.
Thirdly he felt unstable with the device🦿to walk without crutches 🩼
That’s too many problems for one device and one person. That is why at Laaos22 we have introduced upgrading of assistive devices to close critical quality gaps between private and public.
Here’s what the upgrades aim to achieve for him:
👟 Changeable shoes: No more being stuck with one set of shoes. He’d be able to swap and adjust as needed.
👣 Shared footwear accessibility: Use the same pair of shoes comfortably on both feet.
👖 Comfortable wear with long pants: A design that allows pants to fit over or with the device without hindrance.
🦿Greater independence: Move beyond crutches and walk more confidently and independently.
This important work is made possible through out partnership and funding with the Australian aid Government funding. We’re grateful for the support and excited about the impact it can have on people’s everyday lives.
If you or someone you know could benefit from assistive device upgrades, or if you’d like to help fund this initiative, please DM us or comment below.
Ntuthuko Mdlalose Tar Ray Ncedo Ludada Australian AidAustralian Awards Australia Awards Australia South Africa
