Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
incorporating individuals with a wide spectrum of functional abilities. Most
people strive to conform to normative standards of functioning and appearance
because we are socialized to minimize or hide our differences (Scherer 2002).
This means that aesthetic considerations play an important role in AT acceptance.
Therefore, a universally designed environment that aesthetically and inconspicu-
ously supports AT use can minimize potential stigma and promote the uptake
and acceptance of the prescribed AT by the user.
• It will support AT use across changing needs, the changing functional status
of the user, and across changing weather conditions. It will be easy and eco-
nomical to maintain and will minimize any negative impact on the natural
environment (sustainability). Device adjustability, affordability, and ease of
maintenance and repair constitute important features that contribute to long-
term AT use (Scherer 2002). However, the extent to which an AT can be adjusted
and maintained with ease will be determined to a great extent by its context of
use. For example, a height-adjustable worktable that can accommodate pediat-
ric and adult-sized wheelchairs can support the user across the growth curve.
Similarly, a carpet that is safe for use with walkers and wheelchairs can sup-
port an aging user with declining functional mobility. In addition, if both the
worktable and the carpet in the above example can be cleaned with nonchemi-
cal agents, they will be easier and economical to maintain without degrading
the natural environment.
Thus far, we have introduced the three dimensions of accessibility, sustainability, and UD
and described the dynamic interaction between them. The next section describes an envi-
ronmental assessment framework that is based on these three dimensions and illustrates
its incorporation within the ATA process.
4.3 Environment Assessment in the ATA Process Based on the
Concepts of Accessibility, Sustainability, and Universal Design
Incorporating the three conceptual dimensions of the environment as discussed above,
one has the potential to maximize user participation and satisfaction, thereby affording
assistive solutions to users. It is important to note that an assistive solution is the outcome
of a user-driven process that aims to improve the user's functioning, quality of life, and
well-being in his/her contexts of use. Rather than focusing on AT alone, the assistive solu-
tion represents a holistic solution, taking into consideration user needs, the environment(s)
of use, and the AT.
The environment represents an important component of the assistive solution and can
be evaluated along the dimensions of accessibility, sustainability, and UD described in
Section 4.2. An evaluation of the environment along these dimensions must include the
following criteria:
• An evaluation of the environment against applicable national/regional accessibil-
ity guidelines and design standards;
• An evaluation of social, cultural, political, and economic components of the envi-
ronment and their potential impact on AT use;
