43 - Assistive Technology

Abstract

The focus of this chapter is on the role of technologies, in particular assistive technology (AT) devices, in enabling occupation. Assistive technology is one of a number of interventions used to enhance the person–environment–occupation fit. Using the Canadian Practice Process Framework (CPPF), the role of the occupational therapist in assistive technology provision is reviewed. The societal and practice contexts in which occupational therapists recommend assistive technologies are discussed, as well as the challenges of balancing pragmatic concerns against person-focused outcome delivery. A range of contemporary issues affect AT provision; discourses of disability and stigma and the realities of policy and funding concerns influence what is possible. The dynamic pace of technology innovation and design movements, such as the universal and inclusive design movements, are altering perspectives of technology and the idea of ‘normal’ and ‘specialised’ AT devices. The chapter presents good practice principles from the perspective of AT users and AT literature and provides a contemporary frame of reference as a way forward to realise the potential of AT to meet people’s occupational goals. These principles are described and illustrated by three people who use AT.