Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
out, taking still photos, and turning the system on and off. Initially, Carol was
extremely enthusiastic and produced wonderful images and footage with her
system. Unfortunately, after a few months, the entire system was returned
(and has since been given to another enthusiastic user). Under further ex-
amination, we found that Carol's original caregiver had moved on to a new
position, and the replacement caregiver had a strong aversion to technology.
The new caregiver was not able to provide Carol with the support and encour-
agement she needed to operate the system. Thus, when the soft technologies
changed, the hard technologies could not be used. Carol's video camera il-
lustrates the importance of having available the necessary soft technology
supports.
5.5 Discussion and Conclusions
Obtaining a successful assistive technology outcome often hinges not on the
technology itself, but rather on other factors incorporated into the HAAT
model. The three case studies illustrate three factors that influence a suc-
cessful outcome. Marion used the technology because it allowed her to con-
tinue with an activity (communication with her family) that was important
to her. Sophie's slippers were not used because no one determined whether
she wanted them, or the reason why she refused to use them. Carol was pre-
vented from continuing with an activity she enjoyed because the environment
no longer supported the use of her technology.
Soft technologies often determine success or failure of an assistive tech-
nology system. Focus on user needs and continued involvement of the user
in the development process for custom assistive technologies is essential to
avoid device abandonment. CanAssist maintains a very high success rate by
paying attention to these critical factors, and by directly addressing the need
for which the assistive technology should be designed.
References
[1]
Blackstone S (2003) Social networks. Augmentative Communication News
15(1):1-16,
http://www.augcominc.com/index.cfm/acn.htm
[2]
Cook AM, Polgar JM (2008) Cook and Hussey's Assistive Technologies:
Principles and Practice, 3rd edn. Elsevier, MO
[3]
Louise-Bender Pape T, Kim J, Weiner B (2002) The shaping of individual
meanings assigned to assistive technology: A review of personal factors.
Disability and Rehabilitation 24(1-3):5-20
[4]
Phillips B, Zhao H (1993) Predictors of assistive technology abandonment.
Assistive Technology 5(1):36-45
