Reachers are valuable assistive technology devices with great versatility. They help people with limited mobility reach objects that are out of arm’s reach. Regardless of motor skills, shorter people find them helpful to access high surfaces, as do individuals who need to do repetitive reaching from high or low surfaces. People in wheelchairs find them to be helpful to reach to the floor safely. And individuals recovering from surgery experience more comfort and safety with reaching, too.
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The Main Reacher Types
1. Standard reachers: Standard reachers typically used for general-purpose tasks such as picking up objects from the floor, reaching for items on high shelves, and dressing. Lengths typically range from 24 to 32 inches. Standard reachers often have a lever and pull string system. The string can be a drawback if it comes untied or breaks. Unique features often included are the metal post at the end for hooking items like clothing and a magnetic end tip to pick up small objects such as paper clips or keys. Featherweight The Original Reacher by RMS is a classic design.
Standard reacher with duct tape hand loop added2. Heavy-duty reachers: As the name implies, heavy-duty reachers are designed for lifting heavier objects, such as laundry baskets or grocery bags. Often, they are advertised for outdoor tasks such as picking up tools and trash. Materials are typically more durable, including stainless steel, reinforced rubber, and stronger plastic. If you have challenging tasks to complete, consider searching for reachers with descriptions including “heavy duty,” “industrial,” “outdoor,” and “professional.” Try the Unger Rugged Reacher.
3. Long-handled reachers: These reachers have longer handles (typically 32-48 inches), making them ideal for reaching objects that are further away.
4. Telescoping reachers: Telescoping reachers like the PikStik TelescoPik allow you to adjust the length as needed, making them a versatile tool for a variety of tasks.
5. Adjustable angle reachers: Angle adjustable reachers are used to access objects from difficult angles, grip items that are hard to grasp, and reduce strain on the arms and hands. TTKK Upgrade Reacher Grabber Tool is one of a couple options in this category.
6. Folding reachers: Fold-up reachers can be handy for transport with the space saving folding feature. Vive Health makes the Folding Reacher Grabber, adding 32” to your reach when extended.
7. Reacher-grabbers: These reachers have a gripper that can be rotated, making them ideal for picking up objects from awkward angles. Reachers by EZPik have rotating heads.
8. Forearm Support Reacher: The StrongArm Reacher Tool offers enhanced support with a forearm brace that reduces strain on the hand and wrist—ideal for those with arthritis or limited grip strength. Its 32-inch reach, rotating claw, magnetic tip, and integrated hook make grabbing items effortless. Lightweight, durable, and foldable for easy storage, it provides stability and confidence for everyday tasks. Perfect for reducing bending, stretching, and wrist fatigue while handling both light and heavy objects.
Reacher Grabber by StrongArm. Image courtesy of StrongArm.Specialized Reacher Options
Specialized reachers also exist for arm and hand weakness. People with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, nerve injuries, quadreplegia, and other conditions resulting in hand weakness may benefit from the following specialized devices:
Quadtools Mini Reacher is shown picking up a highlighter9. Quadtools Reacher: Quadtools reachers are designed specifically for quadriplegics. They feature a unique lever technology that allows users to operate them with wrist extension only. They also have a Sip-n-Grip option which is a mouth-actuated reacher for users with little to no active wrist movement. Several lengths are available in either a heavy-duty or lightweight chassis.
10. Active Hands Reacher/Grabber: Another reacher operated by wrist extension, the Active Hands Reacher/Grabber is geared at quadriplegics and others with reduced hand function. The reacher cuffs around the forearm and wrist, preventing the need to grasp the device. The device comes in left and right versions at one size but can be adjustable to the users arm.
11. Quad Reacher: The Quad Reacher by Jaeco Orthopedic is yet another wrist extension operated device, but with this option being the longest running on the market. Jaeco Orthopedic has been around since 1955. It’s available in 20” or 24” lengths in small, medium, large, or custom sizes.
12. Etac Aktiv Reachers: All Etac Reachers are aimed at requiring minimal hand grip, with the design utilizing the strength of the hand rather then a couple fingers. The Etac Aktiv reacher with power grip and hook has a unique design featuring a forearm support and angled lever to increase leverage and stability. The jaws rotate to pick up items in both horizontal and vertical positions.
13. Helping Hand Arthri Grip Pro Reaching Aid: This one features an easy to squeeze trigger within an ergonomic shaped handle that engages the whole hand for improved force distribution. Find it here.
Close up of reacher handle with full hand grip design, designed for individuals with hand weakness. Image by Eddau, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. SourceReacher Types Conclusion
To summarize, there are a wide array of reacher options to suit various needs, whether it’s for everyday tasks, heavy-duty use, or specialized assistance. With the right reacher, you can pick up objects with ease. Still unsure which is the best type for you? Visit with an occupational therapy practitioner or assistive technology specialist in your area for personalized advice.
