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The need for information on assistive devices by older persons
W C Mann1, M Tomita, S Packard
1Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Aging, University at Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
Assistive Technology : the Official Journal of RESNA
|December 9, 1993
Summary
Many individuals seeking assistive devices suggested products already available. This highlights a critical gap in consumer awareness and information regarding existing assistive technologies that could enhance quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Engineering
- Assistive Technology Research
- Human Factors in Aging
Background:
- The Rehabilitation Engineering Research Center on Aging's Consumer Assessments Project aims to understand consumer needs for assistive devices.
- Assessing unmet needs is crucial for guiding the development of new technologies to improve quality of life for older adults.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify desired assistive devices that consumers believe are not yet developed.
- To evaluate consumer awareness of existing assistive technologies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 110 interviews from the Consumer Assessments Project.
- Comparison of consumer-proposed devices against the Hyper-ABLEDATA database of existing products.
Main Results:
- 39% of subjects proposed a new device.
- All proposed devices were found to be already available in the market.
- A significant portion of participants lacked comprehensive knowledge of current assistive device options.
Conclusions:
- Consumers often lack up-to-date information on available assistive devices.
- Improved dissemination of information on existing assistive technologies is needed.
- Bridging the information gap can enhance quality of life by ensuring consumers utilize available solutions.
