Technology and Disability - Volume 36, issue 3

Authors: Hayden, Nikita | Bradshaw, Jill | Hayward, Sarah | Murphy, Joan | Boa, Sally | Eden, Viktoria | Alm, Norman | Pampoulou, Eliada | Mischo, Susanne

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Talking Mats® is a visual communication tool which can support people to express their views. Talking Mats has been used in research as a more inclusive data collection tool, however, analysing the varied data produced by Talking Mats is challenging, and there is a lack of guidance on how to analyse and report these data. OBJECTIVE: We sought to provide an overview of ways in which Talking Mats data have been analysed and reported. METHODS: We conducted a narrative review of studies that reported using Talking Mats to collect empirical data, …to examine how these studies analysed and reported these data. RESULTS: Studies used qualitative analysis techniques, such as: thematic, content, conversation, and framework analysis. Studies also reported clinical and research case studies and observations of non-verbal communication. Quantitative analyses were used less often, and involved transforming qualitative data into quantitative data (e.g., observing symbol placements). Many studies did not describe their methods in sufficient depth. CONCLUSIONS: We developed the Talking Mats Reporting Criteria to support researchers and practitioners to describe their Talking Mats protocols. These Reporting Criteria were developed iteratively and collaboratively between Talking Mats experts and members of the Talking Mats Research Network. Researchers and practitioners should describe their analytical approach in further detail and report the Talking Mats Effectiveness Framework of Functional Communication. Show more

Keywords: Communication support needs, Talking Mats, qualitative and quantitative analysis, inclusive research, methodology

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-230024

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 69-84, 2024

Authors: Ma-thi, Chau | Truong-duc, Toan | Ngo, Thi-Duyen | Le-thanh, Ha

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: According to Dr. Margaret Chan [29 ], approximately 15% of the world’s population faces significant challenges in life due to severe disabilities. The majority of these individuals have mobility impairments, significantly impacting their mobility and self-care abilities. Two main groups affected by these disabilities are individuals with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) and those who have had a stroke. In a study referenced as [28 ], it was revealed that ALS accounts for 80% of cases involving severe mobility impairments. The incidence rates of ALS and stroke are reported to be 4/100,000 people and 600/100,000–1,000/100,000 people, respectively. In Vietnam, the ALS …incidence rate is approximately 2–3 cases per 100,000 people, while over 200,000 individuals suffer from strokes each year. Roughly 25–30% of individuals with mobility impairments are at risk of experiencing communication difficulties, which can manifest as speech difficulties, slurred speech, or aphasia [20 ]. In addition to limited mobility and communication challenges, interacting with the living environment poses a significant obstacle for these individuals. Therefore, in addition to assistive communication systems, it is crucial to develop an effective and user-friendly control system for home IoT devices which enable people with severe mobility impairments to gain greater independence in their daily lives. This study presents the development and testing of an assistive IoT smart control system that allows individuals with severe mobility impairments to control familiar electronic devices using their eyes and brain. The test results demonstrate the realistic and feasible nature of the proposed system. Users rated the system above 2.78 out of 5.00 according to the HMI questionnaire. The score for attitudes, which reflects users’ trust in the system, was 3.76 out of 5.00. Therefore, the proposed approach holds promise in assisting individuals with severe mobility disabilities to effectively interact with the IoT devices in their surroundings. Show more

Keywords: Smart assistive product, assistive communication, smart IOT control

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-240001

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 85-98, 2024

Authors: Jiménez-Arberas, Estíbaliz

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Deaf people using sign and/or spoken language and hearing-impaired people using spoken language face frequent difficulties in activities of daily living due to the communication barriers. Among the main strategies to compensate or mitigate these difficulties we find assistive devices: video relay services, cochlear implant, audio induction loop, FM system, hearing aids. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to explore factors contributing to assistive technology abandonment among deaf individuals who use sign language within the deaf community and those who use spoken language. METHODS: A non-experimental, cross-sectional, correlational design was used for the study. …A semi-structured interview guide in the form of an ad hoc questionnaire containing 10 questions based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. The study was carried out in Salamanca (Spain) in the association SADAP (Association of Postlocution Hearing Loss People) and CCSS (Salamanca Cultural Center for the Deaf). RESULTS: A total of 36 people participated in the study: 6 deaf people, 9 hearing loss people, 8 relatives and 13 professionals. CONCLUSIONS: The most common factors leading to assistive technology abandonment among deaf and hearing-impaired individuals include negative perceptions of the product, malfunction issues, high maintenance costs, insufficient training, and the stigma associated with its use. SIGNIFICANCE: There is a scarcity of studies within occupational therapy focusing on individuals with hearing loss, particularly those who communicate through sign language. This population often faces activity limitations and participation restrictions. While assistive products and technologies can enhance their daily functioning, negative factors that result in abandonment or discontinuation of use remain significant concerns. Show more

Keywords: Abandonment, assistive device, deaf people, focus groups, hearing loss, sign language

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-230038

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 99-110, 2024

Authors: Vozza, Jaclin | Knot, Michaela | Reynolds, Carson | Moll, Sandra | Durocher, Evelyne | Petrie, Samuel | Sukhai, Mahadeo | Gewurtz, Rebecca

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Approximately 7.4% of Canadians over the age of 15 report being blind or partially sighted; this impacts their daily functioning in public spaces [1]. Technological advances have included the proliferation of self-serve kiosk in many consumer settings. However, absent from discussions of community accessibility is the experiences of Canadians who are blind or partially sighted. OBJECTIVE: To better understand the experiences of this population with self-serve kiosks. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to analyze survey data collected as part of a survey by Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB) …of people who are blind, Deafblind partially sighted about their use of self-serve kiosks. 731 participants were surveyed, representing a response rate of 3.5% across Canada. RESULTS: 64.14% of participants faced barriers in completing a task using self-serve technology. Human assistance was required to complete the tasks in most instances. 65.74% of participants reported they did not enjoy using self-serve kiosks and 60.90% of participants reported they would not continue to use self-serve kiosks in the future. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight a need to promote accessibility in the creation and implementation of self-serve kiosks in order to further their use and decrease exclusion of people who are blind and partially sighted. Show more

Keywords: Self-serve kiosks, blind or partially sighted, disability, accessibility

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-240022

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 111-128, 2024

Authors: Beltramone, Diego Antonio | Pucheta, Julián Antonio

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Various models, frameworks, and systems have been established to support persons with disabilities in accessing assistive technology (AT). This paper highlights the commonalities and complementary aspects of these resources for the optimal selection of the most appropriate AT for a particular user. The selection process considers the user characteristics, abilities, needs, and environment. However, it does not provide a specific methodology for tailoring this technology to individual users. OBJECTIVE: This study reports on the experience of an interdisciplinary team formed in 2001 to develop user-tailored AT. The team established a systematic methodology, detailed as a …step-by-step protocol. METHODS: A survey was conducted to validate the protocol’s effectiveness and assess the impact of user-tailored AT. Participants included users and stakeholders. Quantitative data were requested and complemented with qualitative information. RESULTS: Eighty-one participants were involved, with 92.6% reliant on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems. A user-tailored AT was developed for this cohort, with a sustained usage rate of 56.4%. Quantitative analysis revealed a 40% reduction in reported difficulties, and Individually Prioritized Problem Assessment (IPPA) scores demonstrated a corresponding 40% improvement in overall effectiveness. The qualitative data corroborated these findings, highlighting positive user feedback and underlining the significance of family support and interdisciplinary collaboration. CONCLUSIONS: The proposed methodology offers a step-by-step protocol that complements current models and frameworks and aims to guide individuals and teams that develop user-tailored AT for persons with disabilities. Additionaly, this study reflects the importance of applying user-tailored AT to improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities. Show more

Keywords: User-tailored assistive technology, disability, assessment, interdisciplinary

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-240021

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 36, no. 3, pp. 129-139, 2024