National survey of the use of assistive technology by adults with mental retardation.
Although assistive technology provides a promising means to accommodate for barriers to independence and self-determination for people with mental retardation, such devices are underutilized by this population. The Arc conducted a national survey of the use of assistive technology by people with mental retardation. In four of five areas, the percentage of individuals who used a device was under 10%. In two of these areas, the percentage of individuals who might benefit from a device exceeded the percentage who used a device, and in a third area, the percentage using devices was nearly equal to those who did not use but might benefit from a device. Availability and cost were reported as primary barriers. Suggestions were made to address these issues.
Wehmeyer
M L
ML
Department of Research and Program Services, The Arc National Headquarters, Arlington, TX 76010, USA. mwehmeye@metronet.com
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003201:Computers / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003625:Data Collection; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects