Ergonomics in assistive technology design: scoping review

Assistive technology (AT) is essential for promoting independence, autonomy, and quality of life. However, its effectiveness depends on how well devices are designed to support users' activities, contexts, and usage patterns. This scoping review aimed to map and synthesise how ergonomic and usability principles are addressed in the design of assistive technologies.

A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) methodology and reported in accordance with the PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Database searches identified 1,540 records, of which 36 studies met the inclusion criteria. An additional 59 studies were identified through reference list screening, bringing the total to 95 included articles.

The included studies predominantly defined design requirements based on secondary literature, with limited direct user involvement in the early design stages. User participation was more frequently reported during testing and validation phases. Most devices were developed with generalised functional targets, particularly focused on robotic and exoskeleton-based solutions, and commonly addressed activities such as grasping, eating, and mobility. Ergonomic and usability principles were often referenced but rarely operationalised through explicit frameworks, activity-centred analyses, or contextual considerations. Conclusion: The findings indicate that ergonomics and usability remain weakly integrated into AT design practices, particularly regarding user participation, activity context, and adaptability. Strengthening user involvement, adopting activity-centred and context-sensitive approaches, and explicitly incorporating ergonomic and usability frameworks may improve alignment with real-world use and reduce the risk of device abandonment.