Assistive technologies for visually impaired individuals in Turkey

Area of Science:

• Assistive Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Disability Studies

Background:

• Assistive products significantly enhance independence and quality of life for visually impaired individuals.
• Understanding current usage patterns and unmet needs is crucial for developing effective assistive solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the types and extent of assistive product usage among visually impaired people in Turkey.
• To identify perceived utility, reasons for nonuse, and desired features of assistive technologies.
• To explore the availability and necessary adaptations for assistive products in the Turkish context.

Main Methods:

• A phone survey was conducted with 80 visually impaired participants in Turkey.
• Data collected included current assistive product usage, perceived utility, and reasons for nonuse.
• Participants also described ideal assistive products not currently available.

Main Results:

• The most frequently used assistive products were computer screen readers (46%), talking watches (26%), and cellular phone screen readers (21%).
• Cellular phones with screen reading capabilities are the most desired assistive product, hindered by high costs.
• Need for Turkish language adaptation in existing technologies and development of specific products like announcement systems and barrier warning devices.

Conclusions:

• While many assistive technologies exist, cost and language adaptation (Turkish) are significant barriers for visually impaired users in Turkey.
• Further development and market availability of specific assistive products are needed to meet the community's expressed needs.
• Targeted product development, focusing on mobile accessibility and environmental interaction aids, can improve daily living for visually impaired individuals.