NDRD

The World Health Organisation defines assistive technology (AT) as devices and technologies with a primary purpose ‘to maintain or improve an individual’s functioning and independence to facilitate participation and to enhance overall well-being’(i).

AT includes ‘products which enable activities and participation, and the services which support their application and use’(ii).  AT can range from basic to highly complex(iii).

As part of this project, we met with people living in a range of building types and design categories of Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA). We talked to them about their experience of technology in housing, as well as completing two measures of their satisfaction with technology design and services(iv) and use(v). We also spoke to family and support staff. Some key considerations for assistive technology use are listed below – please also refer to Technology Detail notes below.