Smartphone apps for transportation by people with intellectual disabilities: are they really helpful in improving their mobility?

Abstract

Purpose The paper undertakes a critical assessment of the use of smartphone apps for transportation by people with intellectual disabilities. Although apps for transportation such as Uber and Careem have been developed to assist people with disabilities and have numerous benefits, people with intellectual disabilities tend to encounter their own set of difficulties in accessing these apps. Materials and method This paper presents the research findings drawn from a focus group discussion conducted with nine people with moderate to mild intellectual disabilities in Riyadh, by using a qualitative study focussed on the interpretative paradigm. Results From the interview findings, some relevant themes were identified. These were: transportation issues encountered by people with intellectual disabilities, the extent and manner of the use of smartphone apps for transportation, the benefits enjoyed by those individuals in using smartphone apps for transportation and the difficulties encountered by them. Conclusions The paper also discusses the implications for practice and presents some useful recommendations, including the need for family support and government assistance. Implications for rehabilitation Smartphone apps introduced specifically for transportation can be extensively supportive for individuals with intellectual disabilities prominently in terms of ease of use, low cost and flexible navigation. It is found that smartphone apps for transportation have been contributory in fulfilling the mobility requirements of intellectually disabled people. Transportation apps like Careem and Uber are very much popular in Saudi Arabia, specifically among people with intellectual disabilities. Such people frequently use the apps and are happy with their key attributes in addressing their transportation issues. The apps can be further promoted by responsible authorities for facilitating people having intellectual disabilities with strengthened and easy access to learning and working opportunities. Further research studies can be organized with a focus on determining creative ways in which technology integration can play a role in improving the mobility and fostering social inclusion of persons with intellectual disabilities. Government authorities can impose policies and measures for safeguarding the rights of this particular group and advancing awareness among society members for collectively working towards their well-being.