Reflections on designing special devices for the disabled: towards a holistic approach.
This paper proposes a holistic systems approach to the prescription, development and provision of devices and environments aimed at supplementing the abilities of the disabled so that they might achieve independent living at an optimal level. The study of man-environment phenomena and the adoption of an ecosystemic view of these phenomena are proposed as essential elements, providing the 'attitudinal' context from which a comprehensive approach to problem identification and solution might be derived. The design and development of devices and environments for the disabled is presented within a proposed model of rehabilitation design. A model of the design process is also presented and both seek to establish a general systemic understanding of this field of intervention.
D006804:Ergonomics; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D012046:Rehabilitation / Q000523:psychology; D012656:Self-Help Devices; D012931:Social Environment