Chapter 10. Enhancing the Appropriate Use
of Assistive Technology Among Consumers and
Caretakers
Overview
The selection of an AT device should include
not only assessing the functional limitations
of a person’s disability, but also take
into consideration that person’s social
and cultural environment and psychological needs.
Successful AT intervention includes addressing
the functional use of the device, learning new
skills, developing a positive response to the
device, and modifying one’s self-perception
of AT use in daily activities. AT users must
come to deal with AT as both a tool and symbol
of disability. Unfortunately, this disparity
continues to perpetuate conflicts between consumers
and service providers during the selection process.
It is important that consumers do not feel that
AT devices are forced upon them, but instead
they should find their needs and wants at the
forefront of the selection process. Acceptance
and use of AT devices require a process of considerable
time and emotional adjustment for many people.
For all people involved, getting to know the
consumer will allow for the most appropriate
AT selection and enhance compliance. Outlining
the nature and goals of AT training is important
and the training should consist of a series
of sessions. Future research addressing AT use
should focus on obtaining useful information
and knowledge that will ultimately benefit consumers.
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