Understanding the Impact of Assistive Technology on Users' Lives in England: A Capability Approach

Area of Science:

• Rehabilitation Engineering
• Disability Studies
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Conventional assistive technology (AT) impact assessments often overlook qualitative user experiences.
• There is a need for a deeper understanding of how AT influences daily life beyond clinical outcomes or satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the qualitative impact of assistive technology (AT) access and use in England.
• To explore user-reported experiences of AT impact using the Capability Approach.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of a national survey of 7000 disabled adults and children in England.
• Qualitative data from focus groups and interviews with stakeholders across the WHO 5Ps framework.
• Inductive thematic analysis to identify domains of user-reported impact.

Main Results:

• Identified three domains of user-reported AT impact: Functions and Activities, Outcomes, and Lived Experience.
• Functions and Activities include mobility, communication, and daily routines.
• Outcomes encompass autonomy, quality of life, and social participation.
• Lived Experience covers access barriers, essentiality, and emotional connection.

Conclusions:

• Findings provide a user-centered understanding of AT impact, moving beyond traditional metrics.
• Results can inform the development of improved AT measurement tools and research designs.
• The study offers insights for government interventions aimed at enhancing AT provision and access.