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Use of computer assistive technologies by older people with sight impairment: perceived state of access and considerations for adoption
- Author:
- OKONJI Patrick Emeka
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Visual Impairment, 36(2), 2018, p.128–142.
- Publisher:
- Sage
This study explored the perceptions of sight-impaired older people about the use of specialist equipment designed for computer users with sight loss – whether it was meeting their needs and their views on the opportunities for equality in access to computer technologies. The study employed case study research methodology: conducting observations in an Internet café specifically established for people with sight loss and semi-structured interviews with 20 participants who had sight impairments between the ages of 60 and 87 years. A thematic analysis was carried out on transcribed qualitative interview data. Qualitative analysis employed the use of NVivo version 10 for both open and axial coding. Related coded categories were eventually merged into four themes. Findings suggest that stereotyping associated with the use of assistive technologies such as screen readers and concerns about access to mainstream technologies are important factors for understanding acceptance, willingness to adopt assistive technology, or continued use of assistive technologies by sight-impaired older people. Participants perceived advancements in technology as not fully considering their needs. In conclusion, the study highlights important points for technology developers to consider for inclusive designs or cost-effective assistive technologies as social stigma remains a neglected construct for understanding acceptance, willingness to adopt assistive technology, or continued use of assistive technologies among sight-imapired older people. (Edited publisher abstract)
Usability of assistive listening devices by older adults with low vision
- Authors:
- WITTICH Walter, SOUTHALL Kenneth, JOHNSON Aaron
- Journal article citation:
- Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 11(7), 2016, pp.564-574.
- Publisher:
- Taylor and Francis
- Place of publication:
- London
Purpose: This study examines the performance of individuals with both hearing and vision loss when using assistive listening devices. Methods: Older adults (age 60–100) with low vision only (n = 23), combined vision and hearing loss (n = 25) and a control group (n = 12) were asked to assemble a pocket talker, and operate a talking clock and an amplified telephone. They either received minimal or no instruction. Success at using the devices properly, as well as performance speed, was recorded. Results: The proportion of individuals with sensory loss that was able to complete our naturalistic tasks without mistakes ranged from 20% to 95%, depending on the device, the task complexity and the instruction provided. Both instruction as well as simple repetition had statistically significant and separate beneficial effects; however, neither was able to bring success to 100% on any device. Speed and task success were linked in an intuitive way, whereby individuals who succeeded at a task also performed it faster. Conclusions: Even minimal explanation during the introduction of assistive listening devices to persons with low vision facilitates user success. Device visibility, cognitive and motor complexity of the task, as well as manual dexterity warrant further investigation as potential barriers to device use. Implications for Rehabilitation: a) Hearing rehabilitation with individuals affected by vision loss requires additional attention and time to accommodate challenges with visibility and task complexity; b) Even minimal rehabilitation interventions can improve success and speed of device use; c) Repetition (practice) and instruction (strategy) have independent beneficial effects on device use; d) Dexterity, visibility, hand-eye-coordination, task complexity and cognitive ability need to be considered when assigning assistive devices for older adults with vision and/or hearing loss. (Publisher abstract)
Keeping in touch with technology? Using telecare and assistive technology to support older people with dual sensory impairment
- Authors:
- HAMBLIN Kate, KOIVUNEN Emma-Reetta, YEANDLE Sue
- Publisher:
- University of Sheffield. CIRCLE
- Publication year:
- 2016
- Pagination:
- 76
- Place of publication:
- Sheffield
This study focuses on the types of telecare equipment or other assistive technologies available to older people with dual sensory impediment; the agencies and providers which offer, arrange and monitor this support and the scope for widening access to it; the constraints in the everyday lives of older people with DSI, and how telecare and technology might assist them in managing these; and the barriers to the use of technology by this group of older people. The study used the ELA method involving repeat household visits and uses observation, interviews and other qualitative techniques. 146 household visits were completed with 38 participants. The range of equipment available to participants included five categories of equipment, using a categorisation developed during data analysis: alerting technology; assistive listening technology; visual impairment equipment; specialist equipment for using ICT; and assistive telecommunications device. The study found that few items of equipment had been designed for people with DSI, suggesting designers and developers may not appreciate that in older people DSI is often accompanied by difficulties with manual dexterity, balance, mobility and stability. Limited knowledge and low awareness of available equipment and technology, and a lack of information about how to obtain it, were common problems. Success stories, on the other hand, included people for whom technology meant they felt much safer at home; were using public transport alone; could manage everyday chores unaided; and enjoyed new modes of communication and social interactions. (Edited publisher abstract)
Introducing daily living products to older people with sight loss: practice implications of an innovative demonstration programme
- Author:
- PERCIVAL John
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(12), December 2012, pp.570-573.
- Publisher:
- Sage
This practice analysis paper describes an assistive technology demonstration programme for older people with sight loss and their support workers. Ninety-four participants (60 service users (age range 47-84 years) and 34 staff members) across four specialist housing schemes and one resource centre in England attended demonstration sessions, co-led by occupational therapists and lead staff. Twenty-eight daily living devices were demonstrated and discussed. An independent review of the programme gathered perspectives and experiences through focus groups and analysis of feedback forms. This revealed that although participants had some knowledge of generic and low vision devices, they valued the opportunity to learn more about technological solutions to routine difficulties. The author suggests that occupational therapists are equipped to engage in innovative partnerships promoting timely use of assistive technology. Implications for practice are considered and suggestions made as to how occupational therapists may facilitate appropriate awareness of, and access to, daily living devices.
Shifting from compensation to participation: a model for occupational therapy in low vision
- Author:
- SCHOESSOW Kimberly
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 73(4), April 2010, pp.160-169.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Older adults with low vision present unique challenges to occupational therapists because they are generally independent in self-care but limited in leisure, productivity and instrumental activities of daily living. This paper describes a comprehensive literature review and an assessment of the needs of older adults with low vision and proposes a model for occupational therapists. A comprehensive MEDLINE search (1990-2009) of the literature on the interaction between low vision and intrinsic and extrinsic factors was performed. Titles and abstracts were reviewed and all relevant full articles were selected. Additionally, manual searches were conducted of related occupational therapy literature. The literature review found that low vision rehabilitation focuses on technology and modifying the physical environment. However, there are many intrinsic and extrinsic factors that affect the use of these technologies and devices such as cognition, psychology, physiology, spirituality and the social environment. The model proposes expanding occupational therapy with low vision clients to focus comprehensively on participation and integration in the home and community. A sample measurement model for occupational therapy evaluation is provided.
The environmental factors that influence technology adoption for older adults with age-related vision loss
- Authors:
- McGRATH Colleen E., CORRADO Ann Marie
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 82(8), 2019, pp.493-501.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Introduction: This project examines the environmental factors that influence technology adoption for older adults with age-related vision loss. Methods: A one-day workshop, which utilised a variety of hands-on methods including Show & Tell, Technology Interaction, and an “App” Assessment activity, was conducted. A total of 19 participants attended the workshop, including 10 older adults with age-related vision loss, six caregivers, one healthcare provider, and two technology industry professionals. Results: A total of four themes emerged, including: (1) making life harder; (2) relying on support networks; (3) factoring in the pragmatics; and (4) not me, not yet. These themes illustrate the various ways that environmental factors, including physical, social, cultural, and institutional/political factors, influence decision-making regarding technology adoption by older adults with age-related vision loss. Conclusion: This paper demonstrates several environmental factors that influence low-vision assistive device adoption among older adults with age-related vision loss. With their holistic view of clients, including an appreciation for environmental influences, occupational therapists are well positioned to help identify those environmental barriers limiting low-vision assistive device adoption and use. (Edited publisher abstract)
Digital technologies for service providers: 15 innovative practices to advance social care
- Authors:
- DORFMAN Zach, KAINZ Wilfried
- Publishers:
- EASPD, Essl Foundation
- Publication year:
- 2018
- Pagination:
- 40
- Place of publication:
- Vienna
Brings together examples of 15 promising technological and digital innovations that are addressing the needs of people with disabilities today and helping them to lead more independent lives. The selection is the result of a two-stage process and a qualitative and quantitative evaluation based on three primary selection criteria: innovation, impact, and transferability, in addition to their relevance for service providers. The examples include: an online platform allowing qualified job seekers with disabilities to connect directly with companies that are seeking to hire; an Internet-based call feature that enables bank staff to connect to a qualified sign language interpreter; an app for the visually impaired that helps them to locate both objects and services in their immediate surroundings; an application creates augmentative dynamic and alternative communication boards for those with communication limitations, in language or read-write form; a cloud-based system that improves the customer service experience for both the customer with a disability and the customer service team; an artificial vision technology that assists people who are blind, visually impaired, or have conditions such as dyslexia, prosopagnosia, or aphasia, among others; a voice recognition software and other technologies that allow customers to have real-time conversations when, for example, they need to call a service company, book a table at their favourite restaurant, or talk to their doctor; a software system designed to translate audio and written text into sign language; an online application whereby a person with a disability can share his or her needs in various situations and transmit the information to a service provider via a QR code or a link. (Edited publisher abstract)
The benefits and barriers to technology acquisition: Understanding the decision-making processes of older adults with age-related vision loss (ARVL)
- Authors:
- McGRATH Colleen E., ASTELL Arlene
- Journal article citation:
- British Journal of Occupational Therapy, 80(2), 2017, pp.123-131.
- Publisher:
- Sage
Introduction: While research has investigated the factors influencing acquisition and use of technologies/assistive devices by older adults, few studies have addressed the decision-making processes regarding technology adoption of older adults with age-related vision loss. Method: This critical ethnography engaged 10 older adults with age-related vision loss in narrative interviews, participant observation sessions, and semi-structured in-depth interviews to understand their decision-making processes related to the acquisition and use of low vision assistive devices to support occupational engagement. Findings: Study findings focused on the benefits and barriers to technology acquisition and use. Benefits of technology acquisition included: enhanced occupational engagement; independence; safety; insurance; and validation of the disability, while the barriers to technology acquisition included: cost; training; usability; lack of awareness of low vision rehabilitation services; fear of being taken advantage of; and desire to preserve a preferred self-image. Conclusion: Considering the low uptake of vision rehabilitation services, the study findings are important to occupational therapy. A better understanding of the perceived benefits and barriers to technology adoption from the perspective of older adults will help occupational therapists maximise treatment planning designed to enhance the occupational engagement of older adults ageing with vision loss. (Edited publisher abstract)
Lifelong learning: improving opportunities for visually impaired older adults
- Author:
- McCANDLISH Cheryll
- Publisher:
- Royal National Association for the Blind
- Publication year:
- 2000
- Pagination:
- 32p.,bibliog.
- Place of publication:
- London
Aims to identify factors which visually impaired older people consider would significantly improve their access to adult education. Describes the range of educational provision available and the means by which it is funded. Discusses ways in which better publicity and marketing can encourage participation from visually impaired older people. Explores the role of pre-entry assessment in aiding learners. Discusses how appropriate transport, premises, equipment, tutors and volunteers are needed for this group of learners. Discusses issues related to curriculum and learning approaches. Concludes by considering factors which inhibit take-up and opportunities for progression in learning.
A review of the literature on older people's experiences of living in a care home with sight loss
- Authors:
- BANKS Laura, WARD Lizzie
- Publisher:
- University of Brighton
- Publication year:
- 2017
- Pagination:
- 25
- Place of publication:
- Brighton
This literature review identifies available research in the area of living with sight loss in care homes and highlights gaps in current evidence and understanding. It was conducted as part of wider Thomas Pocklington Trust commissioned research into the experiences of older people with sight loss living within a care home. Searches were conducted using the Web of Science, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Social Care Online (SCIE), Google Scholar and the University of Brighton online library database. The literature is reviewed under the following themes: Sight loss detection and access to support; falls and accident prevention; staff awareness and training; psycho-social support needs; assistive technologies; multiple health conditions; and design and environmental issues. The review identifies a number of gaps in the literature regarding the needs and experiences of older people with sight loss living in care homes, with most studies have focusing on private households. (Edited publisher abstract)