Chapter 9. Educating the Consumer and Caretaker on Assistive Technology

Overview

It is imperative that all people involved with AT devices be trained and educated in the selection and use of AT. This is primarily relevant for service providers and consumers, but should also include the consumers’ families or caregivers. Access to critical information regarding AT will empower consumers. However, bureaucratic obstacles and a lack of knowledge about AT across all existing health care professions continue to be barriers to consumer empowerment. Even more barriers to services exist for all ethnic minority groups in the United States. Specific programs must be developed to address issues such as language and cultural views of AT and service professionals. It is essential for successful interventions to occur, that the consumer is viewed as a whole person. In order to prevent AT abandonment, services must be individualized to the consumer. The success of an AT device depends on the extent to which the consumer feels it adequately satisfies his/her needs. The consumer must be both involved and educated, and the service provider must be trained.

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