What term encompasses technologies that assist individuals with impairments in functioning effectively?

The term that best describes technologies designed to assist individuals with impairments in functioning effectively is "Assistive Technologies." This category includes various devices, software, and equipment that help individuals with disabilities perform tasks they might struggle with due to their impairments. These technologies range from mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and walkers, to communication devices like speech-generating software.

Assistive Technologies are specifically designed to enhance the functional capabilities of individuals, promoting independence, improving quality of life, and facilitating participation in everyday activities. This distinction recognizes that the primary goal of these technologies is to provide support that enables individuals to overcome barriers associated with their impairments.

In the context of the other choices, "Adaptive Technologies" typically refers to technology that modifies existing devices or systems to suit the needs of users, but it is not as encompassing as assistive technologies. "Supportive Technologies" is a more general term and does not specifically target those with impairments. "Assistive Devices" might refer to individual items within the broader category of assistive technologies but lacks the inclusive scope of the term "Assistive Technologies."