A Survey of Persons Who Use Integrated Control Devices

Abstract

Integrated devices allow users to operate multiple pieces of assistive technology items from a single input device. Through this single input device, users with severe physical limitations are able to operate several other devices such as a wheelchair, telephone, computer, and communication aid. Twenty-four integrated control users completed a telephone survey to ascertain consumer satisfaction with integrated controls. Eighteen were either satisfied or very satisfied with the evaluation for an integrated control, one was neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, two were very dissatisfied, and three did not respond to the question. Twenty were very satisfied or satisfied and four were either dissatisfied or very dissatisfied with the training they received. Twenty-two respondents indicated they were either very satisfied or satisfied with their integrated control device, one was neither satisfied nor dissatisfied, and one was very dissatisfied. In general, respondents were satisfied with their integrated control devices. Specifically, respondents were satisfied with the increase in independence and the ability to control other equipment such as television sets and computers. Simplicity, touch sensitivity, and visual/auditory feedback appeared to play important roles in satisfaction.