F E AT U R E
Assistive technology in the time of Covid-19 Global Study Calls for Disability-Inclusive Communication and Stakeholder Collaboration Dr Natasha Layton1 and Associate Professor Libby Callaway1,2, 1 Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University, Australia; 2 Occupational Therapy Department, School of Primary and Allied Health Care, Monash University
ageing rely on assistive technology (AT) to take part in activities that are meaningful to them. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that less than 10 per cent of the global population had access to necessary AT. Even high-income countries like Australia had undermet need,.
Millions of people around the world affected by illness, disability or the impacts of
What, then, happened to AT users during the Covid-19 global pandemic?
The WHO commissioned Monash University’s RAIL Research Centre with the Centre for Inclusive Policy to investigate the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on AT use and provision. This global study employed a team of regional researchers – many with lived experience of AT or disability – across the six WHO global regions (see figure one). Accessible surveys and targeted interviews with nearly 150 AT users, their families and AT providers were conducted for the following reasons: 1. To understand the experience of AT users and providers during Covid-19 2. To identify strategies for AT systems strengthening and pandemic response
Findings
The study elicited the following information about a range of enablers and barriers specific to AT access and use:
Figure 1: A regional researcher conducts an interview with an AT user. 16 otaus.com.au
Communication enablers and barriers AT users, practitioners and suppliers enacted innovative strategies to manage pandemic restrictions and meet AT supply and maintenance needs. Information and communication technologies such as smart phones and reliable internet connectivity enabled AT users to access information, organise remote service delivery, and obtain advice from occupational therapists, other AT advisers and AT suppliers. Civil society (that is, neighbours, local communities and
