the present invention provides an ambulatory assistance device such as a grab bar or the like which pivots between a non - in - use and an in - use position . the pivoting of the device is assisted by a torsion member acting between the base member and the body . the torsion device is selected so as to retain the body in its non - in - use position when placed in that position . the weight of the pivoting body of the present invention overcomes the force generated by the torsion member when the body is placed in the in - use position so as to retain that orientation . moreover , the torsion member acts to assist the user of the device in counteracting the weight of the pivoting body member when the body member is moved between the non - in - used position and the in - use position .