How Loan Bank of Assistive Technology Impacts on Life of Persons with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Neuromuscular Diseases: A Collaborative Initiative.

Thais Pousada,Cristina Martínez,Jessica Garabal-Barbeira,Laura Nieto-Riveiro,Javier Pereira,Betania Groba

doi:10.3390/ijerph18020763

Abstract

(1) Background: The study is focused on the implementation of outcome measurement tools to assess the impact of an assistive device from a loan bank in the lives of people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Neuromuscular Diseases. The secondary purpose is to analyse the correct matching between the person and technology, derived from the counselling of an occupational therapist. (2) Methods: Cross-sectional study. The sample was formed by 28 people with rare neurodegenerative disorders. A specific questionnaire, the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Device Scale (PIADS), and the Matching Person and Technology (MPT) tool were applied to collect the data. (3) Results: The dimension of the PIADS with the best score was competence, and the variations according to gender were not remarkable. The three dimensions of the PIADS (competence, adaptability, and self-esteem) were correlated positively between them and with the mean score of the MPT tool (p < 0.01). The type of assistive technology (AT), diagnosis, and correct match between person–technology are the main factors that condition a positive impact. (4) Conclusions: The results noted the importance of assessing the needs, demands, and contexts of people with rare neurodegenerative diseases to prescribe the best AT. Loan banks of AT have to be considered a valid service that complements their lack in public health services.

Highlights

The main objectives of this study were (1) to determine the impact and benefits of the assistive device received from the loan bank and (2) to analyse the correct matching between the person and technology, which is derived from the counselling of an occupational therapist (OT)
A total of 28 persons were included in the final sample, with the median of age
The impact of the device loaned from the bank of assistive technology (AT) of a regional nongovernmental organization (NGO) on the lives of people with rare neurodegenerative diseases (ALS and neuromuscular diseases (NMDs)) is positive, moderate

Summary

Introduction

Assistive products, such as wheelchairs, glasses, and hearing aids, have the potential to enable persons with disabilities, older people, and persons with non-communicable diseases to overcome functional limitations; to lead a healthy, independent, and dignified life; to access employment and education; and to participate in society [2,3] Rare neurodegenerative diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and neuromuscular diseases (NMDs), have an important impact on the independence of the affected person. Their progressive advance decreases the functional capacity of these people, and they can require more support over time, whether it be from assistive devices and/or the caregiver. This help is crucial to maintain a minimum of personal autonomy [4,5,6]

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