Speech-controlled devices have been explored for potential applications in rehabilitation technology. These systems have shown great promises in improving the independence of the differently-abled persons by providing hands-free operation of the rehabilitative aids. The present study delineates the development of a speech-activated wireless control system for controlling rehabilitative devices. A robotic arm was used as the representative rehabilitative device. This technology can be extended to operate other rehabilitative aids (e.g., wheelchairs). The performance of the device was evaluated using ten volunteers. All the volunteers were able to accurately complete the desired movements of the robotic arm with relative ease. The developed device is simple and user-friendly. Copyright © 2019 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.