The Voice of the Consumer: A Survey of Veterans and Other Users of Assistive Technology

MILITARY MEDICINE, 2018 · DOI: 10.1093/milmed/usy033 · Published: November 1, 2018

Simple Explanation

This study surveyed over 1,000 users of mobility-assistive technologies, including 500 veterans, to identify priorities for future research and development in this field. The survey asked participants about the importance of developing various technologies and to rank the importance of certain technologies, also allowing for open-ended comments. The results revealed key themes for future research, including advanced wheelchair design, smart device applications, human-machine interfaces, and assistive robotics.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

1,022 individuals, including 500 veterans

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Participants emphasized the importance of research and development on mobility-assistive technologies and the need to include people with disabilities in the process.
2
Cost was identified as a significant barrier to obtaining new devices, impacting funding availability and the overall procurement process.
3
Consumers and providers often disagree on the level of patient involvement in assistive technology acquisition, but agree that long-term support for technology maintenance is lacking.

Research Summary

This study surveyed over 1,000 users of mobility-assistive technologies to inform a research agenda and identify priorities aligned with user goals and desires. Key findings include the importance of advanced wheelchair design, smart device applications, human-machine interfaces, and assistive robotics, as well as the impact of policy and cost on translational research. The study highlights the need for researchers to understand the effects of policy and cost on translational research and to be involved in educating both consumers and providers.

Practical Implications

Research and Development Priorities

Focus research efforts on advanced wheelchair design, smart device applications, human-machine interfaces, and assistive robotics and intelligent systems.

Policy and Cost Considerations

Researchers need to understand the effects of policy and cost on translational research to mitigate barriers to technology adoption.

Education and Dissemination

Improve dissemination and education pathways to inform consumers and providers about advances in assistive technology research and available products.

Study Limitations

1
Potential oversampling of technologically savvy individuals due to the online survey format.
2
Limited representation of the entire population of mobility-assistive technology users in the U.S.
3
Possible bias in responses due to participants' strong feelings about the topic and the organization's mission.

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