Adoption Of Assistive Technologies Research Articles

Adoption of assistive technologies in long-term care homes: What the pandemic has taught us.

COVID-19 increased the use of technology in everyday life and highlighted critical applications for assistive technologies. This comparative research study explores how assistive technologies, including socially assistive robots, can be adopted by long-term care homes to mitigate the lasting effects of the pandemic. In particular, we investigated the types of assistive technologies used by long-term care facilities to help with the care of older residents and for what tasks. Furthermore, we identified barriers to adoption and proposed policy measures that encourage technology adoption.

The Role of Assistive Technology in Enabling Older Adults to Achieve Independent Living: Past and Future.

In this viewpoint, we present evidence of a marked increase in the use of assistive technology (AT) by older adults over the last 25 years. We also explain the way in which this use has expanded not only as an increase in terms of the total number of users but also by going beyond the typical scopes of use from its inception in 1999 to reach new categories of users. We outline our opinions on some of the key driving forces behind this expansion, such as population demographic changes, technological advances, and the promotion of AT as a means to enable older adults to achieve independent living. As well as our review of the evolution of AT over the past 25 years, we also discuss the future of AT research as a field and the need for harmonization of terminology in AT research. Finally, we outline how our experience in North Norfolk (notably the United Kingdom's most old age-dependent district) suggests that cocreation may be the key to not only successful research trials in the field of AT but also to the successful sustained adoption of AT beyond its original scope of use.

The Mediating Role of Self-Determination in the Relationship Between Assistive Technology and Employment Outcomes for People with Disabilities in Saudi Arabia

The current research study conducts an investigation of the dynamic relationship between three key variables: assistive technology (AT) provision, self-determination (SD), and employment outcomes (EOs) as they pertain to persons with disabilities (PwDs) in Saudi Arabia (KSA). The main objective of the study is to investigate the function of AT in improving EOs for PwDs and contextualize the mediating effect of SD on the observed relationship. The study features a quantitative study design which utilizes survey data obtained from a sample size of 120 PwDs. The study participants are employed in either private or public sector organizations situated in Riyadh and Al-Jouf regions of KSA. The conducted survey provides measurements, using a Likert scale, for AT provision, various aspects of SD (decision-making autonomy, self-belief, self-advocacy, goal setting, and persistence and resilience), and EOs (job placement, satisfaction, retention, income level, and career advancement). For data analysis, the study utilizes the partial least square-structural equation modeling. The study findings demonstrate significant direct and indirect effects of AT provision on EOs for PwDs—with SD playing a key mediating role. Specifically, positive effects of AT can be observed in job placement, satisfaction, income level, retention, and career advancements—SD is observed as a key facilitator of AT adoption and effectiveness (EFF) within workplace settings. The findings emphasize the key role of AT investment (accessibility and EFF) in the enhancement of the SD skills of PwDs, and the resulting effect of more inclusive workplace environments for PwDs in KSA.

A Scoping Review of Studies on Assistive Technology Interventions and Their Impact on Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Arab Countries.

To review the current literature on the AT interventions and outcomes reported for individuals with ASD in Arab countries. A scoping review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was undertaken to explore the utilization of AT, segmented into three categories: low-technology (low-tech), mid-technology (mid-tech), and high-technology (high-tech) devices. Twelve studies had a pooled sample of 1547 participants, primarily male school-aged children with ASD. The AT applications evaluated ranged from low-tech visual schedules and support to high-tech virtual reality systems. Studies have reported the potential benefits of AT in improving communication, social, academic, adaptive, and functional abilities; however, comparative evidence between AT interventions is limited. The identified barriers to the adoption of AT included caregiver uncertainty about the use of AT and a lack of awareness of AT among professionals and the Arab community in general. Available studies suggest that the adoption of AT can enhance the skills of individuals with ASD in Arab countries. However, more rigorous studies across diverse demographic groups and Arab national regions are needed to strengthen the evidence base and provide appropriate recommendations.

Evaluating the Energy Requirements of Assistive Technologies for Older Adults.

The successful adoption of assistive technologies for older adults requires considering and evaluating many different factors and dimensions such as effectiveness, usability, cost and equity of access, to name some of the most relevant. In line with this, the energy requirements to power such assistive technologies remains a hidden factor that might to some extent influence the success in their adoption and the user experience in a wider sense. Very often energy availability is taken for granted and its associated costs and operational requirements are mostly neglected. In this paper, the energy-related requirements of assistive technologies are analysed from a general perspective. This analysis is subsequently particularised for a use case within the SHAPES project, in the context of active and healthy ageing. This use case includes a wide variety of assistive technologies, namely: wearable devices, home sensors and a smart mirror, which provides connectivity and a set of software services. The energy requirements of all these technologies are evaluated and analysed to investigate their impact and relevance on the overall cost and user experience, following the proposed protocol.

Innovation for All: Unleashing the Power of Assistive Technology in Special Education in Arabic-Speaking Countries

This topical review digs into special education teachers' growing usage of Assistive Technology (AT) in Arabic-speaking countries to serve children with impairments. This study investigates AT's benefits, drawbacks, and possible applications in this educational setting by reviewing the available literature from six major academic databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, JSTOR, ERIC, Academia, and ResearchGate. The findings highlight the need for tailored and student-centered approaches to AT adoption and effective training and ongoing support for educators and students. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the potential of AT to improve academic and functional outcomes, allowing students to overcome obstacles and actively participate in their educational path. The significance of these findings for future special education research and practice is examined, laying the groundwork for further investigation of AT's influence on children with disabilities in Arabic-speaking countries. The outcomes of this review emphasize the need to implement AT in Arabic-speaking special education settings using tailored and student-centered approaches. Students with disabilities can effectively use AT solutions to enhance their learning experiences by tailoring AT solutions to specific needs. Furthermore, the study emphasizes the importance of instructor and student training and ongoing assistance. Proper training provides instructors with the skills and information they need to properly deploy AT tools, while continual support ensures that AT remains effective in the classroom.

Funding and Provision Models for Mobile Technology for Persons with Disabilities.

Research has yet to full investigate the multidimensional factors and mechanisms that contribute to access and adoption of Assistive Technology (AT). This mini-session aims to explore this gap by providing initial indicators for the social return on investment (SRoI) for including mainstream consumer technology in AT provision schemes and report on an analysis of key stakeholder perspectives and documents funded by the Global Accessibility Reporting Initiative (GARI).

Barriers and facilitators of the adoption and use of assistive technology for adults with an intellectual disability who live in supported accommodation: a mixed methods systematic review protocol.

The objective of this review is to identify the barriers and facilitators of assistive technology adoption and use in adults with intellectual disabilities living in supported accommodation. This will inform the development of an assistive technology adoption framework for these settings. Assistive technology has the potential to increase the independence and well-being of people with intellectual disabilities; however, it is often not adopted. Generic models of technology adoption exist, and a recent systematic review has explored factors influencing access to assistive technology by people with intellectual disabilities. However, no review has presented a framework of adoption or use of technology specifically for people with intellectual disabilities living in supported accommodation. This review will include qualitative, quantitative, and mixed method studies as well as gray literature published from 1989 to 2023 on the barriers and facilitators of technology adoption and use by adults with intellectual disabilities living in supported accommodation. Systematic reviews and theses will be excluded. The review will be conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology for mixed methods systematic reviews and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Databases to be searched will include PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, CINAHL, IEEE Xplore, and SocINDEX. Two independent reviewers will screen titles and abstracts for relevance and quality. Data will be extracted by 1 reviewer and validated by a second, independently. Data analysis will use a convergent integrated approach, with quantitative data "qualitized" using thematic analysis to allow comparison. All data will be mapped onto an existing framework of technological adoption via framework synthesis. PROSPERO CRD42022353732.

Listening to the Voice of People with Vision Impairment

Extensive research developed assistive technologies (ATs) to improve mobility for people with vision impairment (PVI). However, a limited number of PVI rely on ATs for mobility. One of the factors contributing to the limited reliability and low acceptance of ATs is the developers’ failure to consider PVI mobility traits from the target group’s perspective. Many developers and researchers proposed solutions based on their knowledge and experiences, where PVI have been excluded from several studies except for limited involvement in testing phases. Accordingly, this study aims to bridge this gap by providing comprehensive information on PVIs’ behaviors, challenges, and requirements for safe and independent outdoor mobility. Therefore, a total of 15 participants with vision impairment were involved in semi-structured interviews and two observation sessions. One key finding highlights the need for AT that complements the conventional cane and overcomes its limitations, not substituting the cane. Moreover, the proposed AT should address instant mobility and future needs simultaneously. Overall, the study contributes to providing comprehensive knowledge on PVI safe and independent mobility traits, which assist AT developers to explore the potential barriers and facilitators of the adoption of ATs among PVIs and leads to develop effective and reliable ATs that meet their needs. For future work, the researchers will develop an AT that complements the conventional cane, supports instant mobility, and enhances cognitive map formation.

Assistive Technology Is a Resource for Building Capabilities, but Is It Just Addressing the Symptoms of Inequality?

Advocacy for assistive technology interventions is compatible with the capabilities approach but is insufficient for addressing the disadvantage experienced by people with disability. This paper reflects on equality as an objective of the capabilities approach arising from economics, and it summarises how assistive technology and accessibility are mechanisms for achieving equality in the contemporary legal context of international disability rights. Research and advocacy for assistive technology have failed to communicate a coherent set of actions for policy makers to adopt. Defined concepts and interventions are required to prioritise and coordinate action to support individuals with assistive technology in parallel with improving collective resources by improving accessibility. Radical change in economic paradigms and societal structures that drive poverty and disability may be required for the effective adoption of assistive technology and closure of capability gaps.

Promotors and barriers to the implementation and adoption of assistive technology and telecare for people with dementia and their caregivers: a systematic review of the literature

BackgroundOne of the most pressing issues in our society is the provision of proper care and treatment for the growing global health challenge of ageing. Assistive Technology and Telecare (ATT) is a key component in facilitation of safer, longer, and independent living for people with dementia (PwD) and has the potential to extend valuable care and support for caregivers globally. The objective of this study was to identify promotors and barriers to implementation and adoption of ATT for PwD and their informal (family and friends) and formal (healthcare professionals) caregivers.MethodsFive databases Medline (Ovid), CINAHL, Web of Science, APA PsycINFO and EMBASE were searched. PRISMA guidelines have been used to guide all processes and results. Retrieved studies were qualitative, mixed-method and quantitative, screened using Rayyan and overall quality assessed using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) and Mixed Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT). Certainty of evidence was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria and assigned within categories of high, moderate, or low. NVivo was used for synthesis and analysis of article content. A narrative synthesis combines the study findings.ResultsThirty studies (7 quantitative, 19 qualitative and 4 mixed methods) met the inclusion criteria. Identified primary promotors for the implementation and adoption of ATT were: personalized training and co-designed solutions, safety for the PwD, involvement of all relevant stakeholders, ease of use and support, and cultural relevance. Main barriers for the implementation and adoption of ATT included: unintended adverse consequences, timing and disease progress, technology anxiety, system failures, digital divide, and lack of access to or knowledge of available ATT.ConclusionThe most crucial elements for the adoption of ATT in the future will be a focus on co-design, improved involvement of relevant stakeholders, and the adaptability (tailoring related to context) of ATT solutions over time (disease process).

Assistive digital technology to promote quality of life and independent living for older adults through improved self-regulation: a scoping review

ABSTRACT Digital technologies can be a key component in helping older adults maintain their autonomy and quality of life in their homes and communities. The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the existing literature on the role of assistive digital technologies in promoting a higher quality of life and independent living for older adults by supporting their self-regulation in various aspects of daily living. The review was conducted and reported in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Major electronic databases were searched to identify relevant articles published between 2012 and 2022. A total of 972 articles were identified, of which 19 articles met all inclusion criteria. Results are presented in four categories: (i) types of digital technologies, (ii) quality of life domains, (iii) quality of life benefits, and (iv) technological aspects supporting self-regulation. Our review also showed that successful adoption of assistive technologies depends on older adults’ trust in these technologies and the perceived benefits of technological support. Early involvement of older adults in the development of assistive technologies appears to play an important role in their technological self-efficacy. The limitations of the studies reviewed are discussed, and some general guidelines for future research in this area are suggested.

Caregivers' Profiles Based on the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure for the Adoption of Assistive Technologies.

The COPM (Canadian Occupational Performance Measure) is a tool that is based on the identification of self-perceived performance and satisfaction problems in the performance of occupations, allowing the creation of a hierarchy in the order of the interventions to be carried out, and speeding up the identification of the necessary AT (Assistive Technologies). Given the importance of the caregiver’s perception about their own performance in the design of AT, this research examines the caregiver’s profile through the COPM. A sample of 40 caregivers volunteered to participate in the study. A cluster analysis was carried out on the COPM scores. Two caregiver profiles were found in relation to the COPM measure, one with low scores on performance and satisfaction and another with high scores on both of these two variables. The main predictor was found to be the self-perception of performance. The structure was replicated through a hierarchical cluster analysis, where the role of caregivers was of interest. These results are relevant on both a theoretical and practical level.

Assistive Communication Technologies and Stigma: How Perceived Visibility of Cochlear Implants Affects Self-Stigma and Social Interaction Anxiety

Assistive technologies promise improved functionality for people with disabilities, but their use and adoption are complicated. Previous research has identified several reasons why people with disabilities choose to abandon their assistive technologies. However, less is known about the adoption of assistive technologies that are permanent and user perceptions of these technologies. This study builds upon existing assistive technology, disability, identity, and stigma literature by examining the role of perceptions of cochlear implants, an assistive technology that permanently renders an invisible disability visible, among the single-sided deaf community. Analysis of survey data from 332 single-sided deaf individuals with cochlear implants all over the world revealed that the perceived visibility of assistive technology is positively associated with self-stigma and social interaction anxiety. Results from this study highlight the centrality of sociotechnical perceptions of assistive technologies to the experience of stigma, rather than the objective characteristics and features of technology, and problematize the existing dichotomous approach (visible v. invisible) to understanding assistive technologies. This study also illuminates the importance of studying assistive technologies on an intragroup level as well as focusing on how specific stigmatized niche communities may perceive and use their assistive technologies.

Can assistive technology support social services during Covid-19 emergency? Barriers and opportunities

During the COVID-19 emergency, most domiciliary social services were suspended to avoid the risk of contagion, leaving older people at a greater risk of social isolation. Assistive technology has the potential to support the work of social professionals in promoting social inclusion and assistance of the older people. In this context, this paper aims to investigate the expectations of social operators toward assistive technology before and during the COVID-19 emergency. It also explores how the said emergency could guide us to implement social services in the future, including a discussion on the barriers to the adoption of assistive technologies. A total of 72 social professionals participated in this study comprising of three phases: two online questionnaires and one semi structured interview. In the first two phases, the two online questionnaires were administered before and during the COVID-19 emergency to 62 social professionals. In the third phase, 10 social workers were interviewed to discuss the results of the previous questionnaires to gain an in-depth understanding. The results highlight that the COVID-19 emergency is responsible for an increased perceived need of services involving telepresence, proposing a hybrid paradigm of assistance with both remote and in-presence assistance. Furthermore, the identified barriers to technology adoption are lack of organizational structure and ready-to-use technology. As for the facilitators for the technology adoption, social workers suggested investing in education and training of social professionals to reduce skepticism towards the usefulness of technology. The social professionals involved in this study highlight a generally positive view of technology in supporting their work. Finally, the lessons learned is also presented as a guideline for researchers in this field.

A Novel Integration of IF-DEMATEL and TOPSIS for the Classifier Selection Problem in Assistive Technology Adoption for People with Dementia.

The classifier selection problem in Assistive Technology Adoption refers to selecting the classification algorithms that have the best performance in predicting the adoption of technology, and is often addressed through measuring different single performance indicators. Satisfactory classifier selection can help in reducing time and costs involved in the technology adoption process. As there are multiple criteria from different domains and several candidate classification algorithms, the classifier selection process is now a problem that can be addressed using Multiple-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods. This paper proposes a novel approach to address the classifier selection problem by integrating Intuitionistic Fuzzy Sets (IFS), Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL), and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The step-by-step procedure behind this application is as follows. First, IF-DEMATEL was used for estimating the criteria and sub-criteria weights considering uncertainty. This method was also employed to evaluate the interrelations among classifier selection criteria. Finally, a modified TOPSIS was applied to generate an overall suitability index per classifier so that the most effective ones can be selected. The proposed approach was validated using a real-world case study concerning the adoption of a mobile-based reminding solution by People with Dementia (PwD). The outputs allow public health managers to accurately identify whether PwD can adopt an assistive technology which results in (i) reduced cost overruns due to wrong classification, (ii) improved quality of life of adopters, and (iii) rapid deployment of intervention alternatives for non-adopters.

Blind spot sensor systems for power wheelchairs: obstacle detection accuracy, cognitive task load, and perceived usefulness among older adults

Purpose Blind spot sensor systems can improve power wheelchair (PWC) safety. This research (1) compared accuracy of obstacle detection in the rear of a wheelchair with and without a sensor system, and (2) explored cognitive task load and perceived usability, safety, confidence and awareness in a laboratory setting, and (3) PWC users’ perceptions in real-world settings. Materials and methods A mixed-method design was used. PWC users were provided with the sensor system. In laboratory accuracy of obstacle detection with and without a sensor system, cognitive task load and perceived usability, safety, confidence and awareness were evaluated. Participants then used the sensor system at home for two-months before completing semi-structured interviews. Statistical and thematic analyses were conducted. Results Among 11 PWC users (age = 67.5 ± 7.5y), obstacles were detected more accurately with sensor system than without (p < 0.001). Using the sensor system required lower cognitive task loads (p = 0.005). The system was perceived by most users as easy to use (9/11) and its capabilities meeting their requirements (8/11). Most users did not perceive safety (9/11), confidence (9/11) or increased awareness (10/11) in the laboratory. Three themes emerged in the follow-ups: perceived usefulness, barriers to use, and recommendations. Four participants reported continued use after 2 months, reporting perceived increased awareness, convenience, and independence using the system. Those who discontinued use reported perceived lack of usefulness and technical issues. Recommendations included types of users who can benefit and sensor improvements. Conclusions Sensor systems may improve obstacle detection accuracy while reducing cognitive task load. However, larger scale implementation should consider recommendations for PWC service provision. IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION Blind spot sensors systems increased speed and accuracy of obstacle detection when using a power wheelchair. Technical and hardware issues encountered by PWC users highlight the need for training and support services. Technical support was out of scope for the current research project and will be explored in future research given the critical role it might play in the usability and adoption of assistive technologies. PWC users perceived there to be practical uses for blind spot sensor systems.

Assistive Technology in Education

This article offers a socio-technical framing of assistive technology design for in-classroom use to enable a better understanding of how to improve educational opportunities and outcomes for learners with disabilities. By addressing social inequities in public education and recognizing user-centered design faults and inadequacies in the current implementation of assistive technology in the educational environment, this paper focuses on understanding the experiences of learners with disabilities. This article discusses challenges faced when adopting such technology and the effects of the current well-intentioned but flawed implementation of assistive technology. The authors highlight the limitations and shortcomings of the current approaches portrayed in previous research and educational practices. The article concludes with a call for a socio-technical approach to the adoption of assistive technology to augment the learning experience for a more inclusive atmosphere, and encourages a deeper appreciation for the interrelatedness between people, educational organizations, and technology.

Insights Into the Older Adults' World: Concepts of Aging, Care, and Using Assistive Technology in Late Adulthood.

The ongoing demographic change forces different stakeholders to cope with increasing needs in nursing care and the economic costs. Consequences arising from the population aging can be supported by assistive technologies to maintain older individuals' autonomy. However, older adults' opinions on the assistance of health-related technologies and their attitudes toward aging and care largely remain underexplored. This paper provides a geriatric and socio-technical perspective, investigating individual perceptions of (a) aging, (b) nursing care, and (c) the adoption of assistive technologies in a cross-national subject group. For this purpose, N = 384 individuals (60+ years) participated in an online survey. Findings indicate that most older adults are open to assistive technologies and that individual care preferences contribute to a successful adoption of these technologies. Among individual factors, health status, and gender affect respondents' opinions the most. Our findings help to understand older adults' acceptance of assistive technologies and contribute to the research on the nursing care in private and professional environments.

Overcoming barriers to the adoption of locating technologies in dementia care: a multi-stakeholder focus group study

BackgroundLocating technologies are a subtype of assistive technology that aim to support persons with dementia by helping manage spatial orientation impairments and provide aid to care partners by intervening when necessary. Although a variety of locating devices are commercially available, their adoption has remained low in the past years. Several studies have explored barriers to the adoption of assistive technologies from the perspective of professional stakeholders, but in-depth explorations for locating technologies are sparse. Additionally, the inputs of business professionals are lacking. The aim of this study was to expand knowledge on barriers to the adoption of locating technologies from a multi-stakeholder professional perspective, and to explore strategies to optimize adoption.MethodsIn total, 22 professionals working in business (n = 7), healthcare (n = 6) and research (n = 9) fields related to gerontology and gerontechnology participated in our focus group study. Perceptions on the value of using locating technologies for dementia care, barriers to their adoption, as well as salient services and information dissemination strategies were explored. After verbatim transcription, transcripts were analysed following an inductive data-driven content analysis approach in MAXQDA.ResultsSix key adoption barriers centering on: (1) awareness-, (2) technological-, (3) product characteristic- and (4) capital investment-based limitations, (5) unclear benefits, as well as (6) ethical concerns emerged. The interplay between barriers was high. Five core themes on services and information dissemination strategies centering on: (1) digital autonomy support, (2) emergency support, (3) information dissemination actors, (4) product acquisition, and (5) product advertising were extracted.ConclusionsOur study with interdisciplinary stakeholders expands knowledge on barriers to the adoption of locating technologies for dementia care, and reinforces recommendations that an interdisciplinary strategy is needed to optimize adoption. Also, our findings show that focusing on services to increase digital autonomy and on information dissemination strategies has been largely overlooked and may be particularly effective.