A adjustable assist device for and method for using the assist device for exiting a zero turn lawn mower or adjusting a cutting deck height of a zero turn lawn mower having an operator deck and an operator seat proximate the operator deck wherein the adjustable assist device is attached and extends upwardly from the deck and is positioned forward of the operator seat and comprises a hand hold section for gripping to aid an operator in reaching a standing position on the operator deck. The adjustable assist device can change its height based on changing the pivot between the device and the deck.
