Selecting the most appropriate technology: the need to assess the match of person and device

Abstract

A shift in philosophy has increased the use of evidence-based practices, moving toward person-focused programs and away from generalized, people-focused efforts focused on infrastructure services. Person-focused efforts are tailored to the individual’s needs, while people-focused efforts can tend to follow a “one-size-fits-all” approach to service delivery. A taxonomy which holds a good deal of promise for being more person-focused is the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF), developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), in which body functions, body structures, activities and participation in life roles, and contextual factors are to be considered when evaluating individuals’ needs and the effects of service provision. Assessing the features of these domains and contexts for a given individual can facilitate the person–technology match, so that the adopted technology can have a meaningful impact on quality of life, health, and participation of persons with disabilities. This paper presents an evidence-based practice designed to achieve successful matching of person and technology and subsequent optimal use of that technology.