Project Overview

A reacher is an assistive device that allows the user to perform simple daily tasks such as safely picking up items that cannot easily be reached. Using a reacher reduces falls among seniors and provides greater independence for those with physical disabilities. However, existing reachers are manually actuated and wholly unsuitable for seniors with weakened grip strength, such as the 2.1 million Canadian seniors suffering from arthritis. In response to this need, we have developed a lightweight electronic reacher that multiplies force through the application of battery power, making it suitable for use by seniors suffering from arthritis. This project will advance the electronic reacher to market readiness by refining the engineering and industrial designs, finalizing the business plan and go-to-market strategy, evaluating the patentability and estimating production costs. This product will offer seniors who cannot operate manual reachers the same benefits of enhanced independence and reduced injuries.