Cell phone use by adults with intellectual disabilities.
Although cell phone use has grown dramatically, there is a gap in cell phone access between people with disabilities and the general public. The importance of cell phone use among people with intellectual disabilities and studies about use of cell phones by adults with intellectual disabilities was described. Our goal was to determine the extent and scope of cell phone use by 83 adults with intellectual disabilities, reasons for nonuse, and factors affecting use. Results suggest a gap in the use of cell phone technology between people with intellectual disabilities and the general population. When used, they are employed primarily for emergencies, storing telephone numbers, and day-to-day communication. Chief reasons for nonuse include cost, perception of not needing one, and lack of accessibility.
Bryen
Diane Nelson
DN
Institute on Disabilities, Pennsylvania's University Center for Excellence, USA. diane.bryen@temple.edu
Carey
Allison
A
Friedman
Mark
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D040421:Cell Phone / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003142:Communication; D003710:Demography; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008607:Intellectual Disability / Q000453:epidemiology*; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology