Satisfaction of Individuals with Physical Disabilities Regarding the Use of Assistive Technologies

Abstract

Background: The individual's personality and social factors influence a person's desire or ability to use assistive technology devices. Therefore, these components contribute to a positive or negative influence on the use of assistive technology and on the degree of satisfaction with the use.Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate levels of satisfaction of individuals with physical disabilities with their prescribed piece of assistive technology. Methods: A quantitative questionnaire survey using The Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology 2.0. Data collect took place from August 2018 to April 2019, in the Physiotherapy Clinic of a Community University, in the Specialized Center for Physical and Intellectual Rehabilitation II and in the support networks for individuals with disabilities, such as: Roda Solta, Association for Supporting Families of Impaired People, Association of Disabled People and athletes of the women's Paralympic Handball Championship. Results: Fifty-six individuals with physical disabilities between 20 and 80 years old participated in the research, 27 women (48.2%) and 29 men (51.8%).The results suggested that individuals are quite satisfied with their piece of assistive technology M=3.56(SD=1.09) and more or less satisfied with the professional services provided M=3.28 (SD=1.34). Among the 12 items considered most important by the participants, durability of the resource (54%) prevailed, followed by comfort (28%) and safety (24%).Conclusions: The dissatisfaction of individuals with physical disabilities was evident both in issues related to the resource and in the area related to the professional services, in relation to the resources. It needs to be adapted to the user’s needs, always aiming to improve health condition and quality of life.