The Tennessee Technology Access Program (TTAP) provides device loans, demonstrations, and reutilizations for individuals with disabilities and relevant personnel, such as special education teachers, in Tennessee. Yet, the literature suggests that special education teachers have limited knowledge and skills in assistive technology. Thus, this study assessed special education teachers' awareness and use of their assistive technology program in Tennessee and their access to district-based assistive technology personnel, equipment, and training. A sample of 27 special education teachers self-reported their awareness and use of TTAP and their access to assistive technology resources within their districts. Most special education teachers reported they were not aware of TTAP, and they had not used its services. They also reported experiencing specific barriers to accessing assistive technology resources due to limited time and lack of clarity on TTAP's service provisions. Most participants also reported a lack of access to assistive technology personnel, equipment, and training in their districts. Overall, Tennessee special education teachers did not have access to assistive technology resources in their districts and were not using TTAP. Recommendations are made for increasing the awareness, use, and access of assistive technology resources in Tennessee.
This scoping review explores conceptualizations of identity in relation to older adults' use of assistive technology and describes patterns of AT use and emotional experiences associated with identity-related concerns. Searches were conducted in six databases (n = 1508) limited to peer-reviewed papers published between 2000 and 2022; resulting in the inclusion of 33 relevant papers. The literature evidences an array of overlapping conceptualizations within identity and self. Older adults' experiences with assistive technology are nuanced by ambivalent emotions; marked by both positive - autonomy, security - and negative associations - loss of independence, stigma, threat to personal identity, and dignity. Patterns of technology use encompass compensatory strategies such as negotiation, delays, resignation, substitutions, and pragmatic customizations; these are strongly determined by the self-perception of the need to use assistive technologies. Findings demonstrate that identity-related concerns influence older adults' behavioral and emotional responses regarding the use of assistive technology. This highlights the need for further research on lived experiences and the role of stakeholders in supporting older adults' identity processes throughout their adoption of assistive technology.
The purpose of this review is to determine the effectiveness of assistive technologies in reducing the caregiving burden for older adults with cognitive impairments and disabilities. International databases, Cochrane, PubMed, Embase, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, as well as KoreaMed and other Korean databases, were searched for studies published up to March 30, 2025.The included studies were synthesized using a systematic review without meta-analysis approach. Twelve studies were selected, comprising 941 participants, with eight randomized and four non-randomized controlled trials. Methodologically, the reviewers assessed randomized controlled trials using Cochrane's Risk-of-Bias tool 2.0 and non-randomized controlled trials using the Risk of Bias Assessment Tool for Non-randomized Studies. Assistive technology included social-assist robots; smart tablets or mobile devices; home care technologies that provide monitoring or assistance with activities of daily living; and interactive technologies that enable home monitoring, visits, and telecare. Assistive technology significantly reduced caregiver distress, role strain, concerns about older adults, caregiver burnout, anxiety, negative feelings, and loss of control, and improved caregiver well-being.Caregivers should consider using assistive technology to care for older adults as it can reduce their care burden. Further intervention studies are necessary to analyze how interventions using assistive technology reduce caregiver burden.
Clinicians may have difficulty in selecting Chopart prosthesis. We aimed to compare patients with traumatic Chopart amputation using high-profile prostheses with those using silicone prostheses in terms of satisfaction level, cause of dissatisfaction, difficulty on different terrains, pain severity, and quality of life (QoL). Twenty-four patients were included in this cross-sectional study. Visual Analog Scale (VAS) was used to evaluate the participants' intact limb pain, residual limb pain, and low back pain. The reason for prosthesis dissatisfaction was asked as an open-ended question. The QoL assessment was performed using the Short Form 36 (SF-36). The severity of low back pain (p = 0.020) and residual limb pain (p = 0.024) were lower in the group using silicone prosthesis compared to the other group. SF-36 physical function (p = 0.007), role limitations due to physical health issues (p = 0.032) and emotional health (p = 0.024) subscale scores were higher in the group using silicone prosthesis than in the group using high-profile prosthesis. Patients using silicone prostheses reported less residual limb pain and lower back pain and higher quality of life aspects of physical functioning and emotional health than patients using high-profile prostheses. Further prospective clinical studies are needed to compare the effects of these two prostheses.
Over the past few years, several prosthetic solutions have been produced using Additive Manufacturing (AM). e-NABLE community has been developing these devices, which, despite low cost, are often uncomfortable, less functional and aesthetically unpleasing. This study aimed to develop a functional and anthropomorphic body-powered transhumeral device by redesigning an e-NABLE prosthesis, combining rigid and flexible materials. The process involved analyzing a clinical case of an 8-year-old girl with a transhumeral malformation, assessing her needs and anatomy through measurements and 3D scanning. Testimonies from children with similar conditions and healthcare professionals were also gathered. In the design stage, multiple prototypes were created using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and 3D printing, and then tested for performance and resistance. Additionally, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) was performed to study the device's behavior, while an ongoing study focused on identifying optimal materials. The final prosthesis weighs 400 g, balancing affordability, comfort, aesthetics and functionality, despite some limitations. The terminal device fully closes, requiring between 85.3 N and 163.2 N of force, powered by the amputee's shoulder movements. It performs shoulder internal/external rotation, elbow flexion/extension and forearm supination/pronation. While it can support a maximum load of at least 0.9 kg, maintaining a grip remains a challenge.
Assistive technology (AT) - that is, assistive products and skilled service provision - is critically important to optimize functioning for the billions who need it. Deciding what assistive product to select is a key service provision step and one that often relies on tacit knowledge of the provider workforce. This commentary describes a knowledge translation project developed by the World Health Organization which explored artificial intelligence, specifically machine reasoning, as a strategy to assist in the selection of assistive products. While the online tool ASPREX (ASsistive PRoduct EXplorer) remains in prototype status, the body of knowledge supporting decision-making for the 50 Priority Assistive Products has been systematically documented and made publicly available at eastin.eu. Recommendations are made about how we might enact. Recommendation 6 of the Global Report on AT: Invest in data and evidence-based policy. These include providing public access to knowledge; adhering to standard concepts and terms; and utilization of the WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health as an effective framework to describe the variables which impact assistive product selection and decision-making.
To examine powered mobility learning in children with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) type I, involving families and evaluating goal attainment through the use of small, modified electric toy cars in the children's natural environments. Single-blind pilot intervention study derived from an originally planned wait-list randomized controlled trial. This report includes only the immediate-intervention group that received powered mobility training. Participants' natural environments. Children aged 10 months to 5 years diagnosed with SMA type I, with no previous powered mobility experience. Individualized adaptations of electric toy cars, including postural supports and customized control systems. The structured program lasted 12 weeks, with three 30-minute sessions per week. Progress in powered mobility use was assessed using the Assessment of Learning Powered Mobility use (ALP). Functional goal achievement was measured with Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS). Of the 16 children enrolled, 9 completed the 12-week intervention. The greatest improvement in ALP phase occurred between weeks 0-4 (88.88%; p = 0.01). Functional goals showed significant improvement at all measured intervals (p < 0.05). A structured powered mobility intervention delivered in natural environments supported mobility learning and functional goal attainment in children with SMA type I. Training of powered mobility took place in the natural environment of children with family involvement.The size and adaptability of the modified electric-toy-cars allowed the children to practice mobility in both narrow and open spaces, facilitating the transfer of learning to various environments.Regular visits by a professional provided personalized guidance, empowering parents to conduct the sessions independently, improving adherence and consistency.After 8 weeks of the 12 weeks training period the evaluations of the ALP phase indicated that all participants had reached awareness of how to operate the modified-electric-toy-car in their natural environment.Statistical power may be limited due to attrition (7/16 participants did not complete training); results should be interpreted cautiously.
The aim of the study was to analyze and compare data obtained from different types of microprocessor-controlled knee prostheses that failed in amputated people with transfemoral and knee disarticulation. The medical records of adult amputees whose microprocessor-controlled knee joint prosthesis failed were reviewed. The Genium X3 had a statistically significant higher daily prosthesis use time than the Plié 2.0 and Plié 3.0 groups (p = 0.033), Orion (p = 0.009) and C-Leg 3 (p = 0.017). Patients who used the Orion, C-Leg 4, Plié 2.0 and Plié 3.0 prostheses had a statistically significantly longer duration of use of the current prosthesis than those who used the Genium, and patients who used the C-Leg 3 had a statistically significantly longer duration of use than those who used the Genium X3 (p = 0.023, p = 0.042, p = 0.010, p = 0.018, respectively). There was a statistically significant correlation between current age and time since amputation and duration of current prosthesis use (p = 0.001, p < 0.01, respectively) (r = 0.315, r = 0.364, respectively). There was a significant correlation between time since amputation and daily prosthesis use time (p = 0.015, r = -0.253). In adult transfemoral and disarticulated knee people with amputations, daily prosthesis use time decreases and current prosthesis use time increases with increasing amputation duration.
Virtual travel therapy (VTT) devices have yielded encouraging results as a non-drug therapy for improving behavioral disorders in patients with Alzheimer's disease or related conditions. However, no data are available concerning the real-life use of these VTT devices in long-term care facilities (LTCF) and their efficacy in this population. We conducted a survey of all LTCF equipped with VTT devices. A questionnaire was designed and dedicated on the characteristics of the LTCF. A part focused on the last 10 residents to have made use of the VTT device. Efficacy was assessed with the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAS), the QUALIDEM quality-of-life score and a subjective assessment before and after the session. Fifteen LTCF responded (62%). Six LTCF provided data for 35 residents using the VTT device. The subjective evaluation and the HAS and QUALIDEM scores revealed a positive effect of the VTT device. This is the first multicentre study to present subjective and objective data demonstrating the efficacy of VTT devices in LTCF residents suffering from Alzheimer's disease and related disorders and presenting behavioral disorders. This device was appreciated by the various health professionals working in these LTCF, who were able to use it routinely, confirming its value in this population.
Pain is a significant global burden impacting healthcare resources and patients. Assistive technology can help ease the burden, but the available literature regarding specific skills and competencies required by healthcare professionals to effectively support patients with pain is very heterogeneous. This scoping review explored and mapped the skills and competencies needed by healthcare professionals to utilize the assistive technologies, mobile applications, monitoring, telemedicine/telehealth, and augmented/virtual reality in pain management. The search strategy involved multiple databases and manual searching of reference lists, focusing on publications from 2018 to 2026. All publications underwent independent screening and data extraction by two members of the review team. The screening, selection, and data extraction process was carried out using Covidence. The review includes 76 publications providing insight into the skills and competencies of healthcare professionals in using technologies and supporting the needs of patients with pain. The information identified on skills and competencies included understanding potential adverse effects, technical proficiency, effective communication, and the ability to integrate assistive technologies into standard procedures and routines. To support people with pain, focus should be on personalizing the use of assistive technologies to meet individual patient needs, addressing usability concerns, and ensuring patient safety and engagement.
Assistive technology (AT) enhances functional independence and quality of life for many people with disabilities. 3D printing allows for the creation of highly customizable devices that can be tailored to specific user needs. This review provides an overview of the state of the science around functional outcomes associated with 3D-printed AT. We performed a systematic review of 3D-printed AT outcomes through database searching of MEDLINE, Embase.com, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Explore, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov. From screening 1059 records, we included 40 studies for extraction. The studies were assessed for risk of bias using the ROBINS-I tool, with 37 studies receiving a sufficient rating to be included in this review. Results indicated that satisfaction, lower extremity biomechanics, and psychosocial outcomes were predominantly positive for 3D-printed devices; however, findings for upper extremity biomechanics and function were mixed. Of the 37 studies included, 32 (86%) were level III evidence or lower. This review underscores the need for more rigorous, patient-centered clinical trials focusing on functional outcomes to guide evidence-based decision-making in the AT field.
An interactive virtual assistant can be very useful for older people because it is cost-effective and can easily assist them. It provides ways to give them social support and manage their loneliness by giving them activities, like playing games, solving puzzles, and listening to music. The importance of progress in virtual assistants goes beyond enhancing the features of virtual assistants. Such analysis can be important in finding patterns of trust and attitudes in human interactions, leading to improved adoption of virtual assistants. One of the specific areas where this can be useful is increasing the social acceptance of these assistants among the elderly population. In this study, we surveyed to gauge the popularity of virtual assistants in the elder population, which consisted of a total of 20 questions for which 104 responses were received. Seven hypotheses were formulated for the various Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) parameters and were supported by statistical analysis. The findings highlight that the virtual assistants not only show promising potential for improving the quality of life of older adults but also explain the role of trust, perceived reliability, and emotional comfort in shaping their long-term acceptance.
Assistive technology (AT) plays a pivotal role in enhancing educational access and outcomes for students with visual impairments (SVI). This systematic literature review (SLR) examines research trends and implementation challenges of AT in SVI education between 2014 and 2024. The study addresses three research questions: (1) the frequency and growth of AT-related publications, (2) the subjects and samples examined in prior studies, and (3) the most frequently implemented AT applications and approaches among SVI. A comprehensive review was conducted across seven scientific databases, encompassing indexed, non-indexed, and conference proceedings. A systematic mapping study (SMS) framework was applied to categorize AT devices based on sensory type and educational application. Findings indicate a steady increase in AT research, with primary emphasis on educational functionality, social interaction, motivation, and self-confidence enhancement among SVI learners. AT is widely reported to reduce participation barriers and bridge activity limitations. However, persistent challenges include limited device ownership, insufficient technical expertise, inadequate training, and recurring technical constraints, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. The review underscores the need for context-sensitive AT development, improved professional training, and equitable policy implementation. These findings provide strategic insights for optimizing AT design, adaptation, and deployment to promote inclusive education and equal workforce participation for individuals with visual impairments.
This study explores the intersection of gender dynamics and access to rehabilitation services for women with amputation in Cambodia. Taking place in a semi-urban setting in Cambodia, the study employs a Community-Based Participatory Research approach, fostering collaboration with local communities and stakeholders. The study focuses on women with amputations, to examine barriers and challenges to rehabilitation services. By utilizing semi-structured interviews with 12 women and reflexive thematic analysis, this research aims to understand the perspectives of women with amputation about access, acceptability and perceptions of rehabilitation. Six interlinked themes were identified that elucidated the lived experiences of Cambodian women with amputations: Family Dimensions, Financial Impact, the Impact on the Role of Women, Social Isolation and Exclusion, the Care Journey, and the Psychological Distress. Greater awareness of rehabilitation is recommended among the general public, health professionals and policy makers to reduce stigma, improve referral channels and develop gender-specific approaches in service-provision, such as recommendations for women only service initiatives and implementation of staff training to improve awareness and understandings of needs and experiences of women with disabilities. Through a comprehensive exploration, the study contributes to improved understandings about gender-sensitive and equal healthcare solutions, aligning with SDGs, and addressing post-conflict disparities.
Complex Rehabilitation Technologies (CRT) are crucial to the everyday lives of people with disabilities. These devices and associated seating and positioning systems require regular maintenance, repair, and the replacement of components to maintain health, function, and participation in education, employment, and society. Despite this, research shows that these services are not being adequately provided. Standards in practice for wheelchair repair and maintenance have yet to be developed and are necessary to ensure the best quality of life for users. The purpose of this project was to establish the best practice for CRT maintenance and repair to inform all stakeholders and to improve the overall state of the issue. The authors utilized CRT failure data, initial stakeholder surveys, and guidelines from manufacturer owner's manuals to draft an initial document and implemented a cross-sectional, online questionnaire to be answered by clinicians, manufacturers, providers, and other stakeholders for the development of the "Practice Guidelines for CRT Service, Preventative Maintenance, and Repair." The survey received 145 total responses. Seventy-five were anonymous. Ninety-two stakeholders and CRT industry professionals left feedback. The feedback was analyzed, and several key themes were established. A final version of the document was created using feedback and released by iNRRTS.
Children with neuromotor disorders often experience hand impairments that limit independence in daily tasks as well as the acquisition of new skills. Robotic aids like hand exoskeletons can improve function, but many designs fail to meet user needs, reducing adoption. This study collected parental feedback to guide the development of user-centered hand exoskeletons. An anonymous online survey was distributed to the parents of children with neurological disorders and previously treated at IRCCS E. Medea - Associazione "La Nostra Famiglia" in Bosisio Parini, Italy. Only parents of children with upper limb impairments were invited to answer. The survey explored their perceptions of hand exoskeletons, focusing on functional needs, user-friendliness, and training expectations. A total of forty-six surveys were completed, of which three were incomplete and therefore excluded. Of the forty-three considered, 76.3% expressed interest in a hand exoskeleton for their child, identifying dressing, hygiene, and eating as key activities to address. Key issues in the development of an exoskeleton for the parents were weight, comfort, associated aesthetics and trust. User feedback emphasizes the need for comfortable, lightweight designs with aesthetic appeal to reduce stigma. Parents prioritized functional benefits for daily activities over recreational use.
To reduce fall risk in the homes of community-dwelling older adults, various home modifications (e.g. grab bars, handrails, raised toilets) are recommended. These home modifications might enable older adults to remain independent and are purported to reduce falls. The combined and independent impact on falls is poorly constructed. The objective of this review was to understand the independent and combined influence of the type and location of home modifications on fall-related outcomes in community-dwelling older adults. Three databases (Web of Science, CINAHL, Medline) were searched to identify relevant randomized controlled trials. Studies were synthesized in a narrative (descriptive) results summary grouped by fall outcome, and categorized according to the specific home modifications. Of the 209 studies evaluated, nine met inclusion criteria and were from four different countries. The most common home modifications made were grab bar and handrail implementation. The results suggest that secure rails reduce the number of fallers and fall rates among community-dwelling older adults and implementing a combination of home modifications might reduce the number of fallers or cause no change. Future studies should develop strategies to improve intervention adherence and use a combination of technologies in a randomized control study design.
This study examined how leisure and learning activities are associated with stress in children with physical disabilities, and how psychological changes - specifically competence, adaptability, and self-esteem - following the use of a power-assist device (PAD) influence this relationship. The study involved 19 children using a PAD for their manual wheelchairs. We collected responses regarding daily activities and activity-related feelings over a period of five days using the day reconstruction method and assessed psychological changes after the use of PAD. The analysis revealed that leisure activities had a significant negative effect on stress; academic engagement did not demonstrate a similar impact. Participants' increased adaptability after using the PAD was related to lower stress levels. Moreover, children who reported minimal self-esteem changes after using the PAD were more likely to experience the positive impact of leisure on their stress levels. These findings emphasize both the importance of promoting leisure participation and the value of expanding access to assistive mobility technology, which together can reduce stress and foster psychological resilience in children with severe physical disabilities.
Digital accessibility has become an essential aspect of web design, ensuring that online services are usable by all individuals, including those with disabilities. Yet, the accessibility of tourism websites, particularly in developing regions, remains underexplored. This study has three primary objectives. The first is to examine the accessibility of tourism websites in Saudi Arabia. The second is to investigate the impact of sector type (public vs. private) and audience focus (religious vs. leisure) on web accessibility implementation. The third is to explore the correlations among the outputs of the different accessibility evaluation tools. Results revealed that all evaluated websites fell short of full compliance with WCAG 2.1 guidelines, limiting many users' ability to fully utilize their services. Private sector sites showed significantly more issues, especially under the perceivable principle, while no significant differences appeared between religious and leisure websites. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant relationship between the outputs of TAW and MAUVE++.
This collaborative autoethnography explores the lived experiences of Heba Bashir, a certified prosthetist, orthotist, and physiotherapist working in the Gaza Strip amid ongoing conflict. Through reflective narratives and critical incident analyses, Heba reveals the emotional, ethical, and professional challenges faced in delivering prosthetic and orthotic care under extreme conditions. Themes of ethical dilemmas, emotional exhaustion, resilience, and balancing professional duties with personal and familial obligations emerge strongly. The study highlights critical gaps in the sustainability of humanitarian aid approaches related to prosthetic and orthotic services in Gaza and advocates for greater consideration of implementation realities. Heba's story underscores the resilience of prosthetic, orthotic and rehabilitation professionals and the urgent need for sustained global support for trauma rehabilitation services in conflict-affected regions.