The Polivant is designed to empower individuals with osteoarthritis of the hands to dress and undress independently. Unlike current dressing aids products, The Polivant considers a person’s style and severity of their disability. The Australian Health Survey data estimates that the prevalence of cases of musculoskeletal conditions will increase by 43% by 2032, and the steepest trajectory is expected to be in osteoarthritis (Arthritis and Osteoporosis Victoria, 2013).

This disability interferes with individual’s ability to dress and undress themselves which is classified as a core and basic activity of daily living. Standard clothing designs do not accommodate for the mobility impairments caused by osteoarthritis and often requires a caretaker for additional dressing support.

The Polivant aims to increase a person’s quality of life by empowering the individual’s choice of clothing and by restoring their independence in dressing and undressing.