A human factors approach to adapted access device prescription and customization

Adapted access device prescription and customization is often a lengthy and cumbersome process. To date, few objective procedures are available to assist in the prescription process. Rather, clinician and client rely on a trial-and-error approach that is often severely constrained by the size of their adaptive device collection as well as the extent of clinical expertise. Furthermore, the large number of available options and lack of information delineating the mechanical and physical characteristics of these devices means that therapists must take time away from direct clinical contact to probe each adaptation in detail. There is available in the human factors domain a body of literature that is highly relevant to adapted access. Of particular interest are the studies that have addressed issues related to the suitability of standard and alternative input devices in terms of task productivity (via improvements in input speed, accuracy, and endurance), and their ability to minimize the risk of acute and chronic work-related dysfunction. This paper aims to consider the relevance of human factors research for physically disabled individuals. Three human factors issues--digit travel, digit loading, and device positioning--have been selected as representative of factors important in the configuration of adapted access devices.