Factors in utilization and abandonment of assistive technology in the home: Experiences of consumers and service providers in the UK

Background: It is estimated that there are about 9.8 million people in the UK with some form of disability. There have been estimates of non-use or abandonment of assistive technology (AT) exceeding 80%. It has been argued that the lack of understanding of individual needs produces static and inappropriate designs.

Objective: To determine factors in utilization and abandonment of AT in the home in the UK

Design: Qualitative-exploratory multi-method design

Method: We conducted 30 semi-structured in-depth interviews with consumers in their homes and completed observational charts. Additional data were gathered through consumer user clubs, online discussion fora and informational conversations with occupational therapists, engineers, designers and members of disability organisations. Data were content coded, analysed and triangulated using a constant comparative approach.

Results: AT areas included basic assistive technology, smart home technology and home automation, telehealth, and communication technology. Participants raised concerns about AT costs, maintenance, and user training. Carer or provider-emphasis on monitoring sometimes compromises privacy. Communication technologies may restrict rather than foster independence. Few technological solutions are dynamic and flexible enough to grow along with consumer preferences and need. There is a gap in equitable provision of AT across different regions of the UK.

Conclusion: Assistive technology in the home has received far less attention than health and employment-related issues for people with disabilities in the UK. Design solutions have mostly focused on carer concerns and service users have rarely been consulted in the design process. AT developers needs to incorporate consumer defined design solutions and preferences.