Perspectiva econômica do mercado de inovação em tecnologia assistiva: cenário nacional e projeções mundiais / Economic perspective of the assistive technology innovation market: national scenario and environmental projections

Objetivo: A tecnologia assistiva (TA) busca suprir ou reduzir o impacto das deficiências na execução de tarefas da vida cotidiana. Embora muitas pessoas necessitem de TA, em 2021, a OMS estimou que apenas uma em cada dez pessoas tinha acesso a ela. Com a oferta retraída e a demanda em alta, observou-se um movimento mundial crescente de inovações em TA e a abertura de um cenário de oportunidades para esse mercado. O objetivo deste artigo é avaliar o mercado de TA no Brasil e as projeções futuras, no cenário mundial. Métodos: A pesquisa foi realizada em três etapas. Primeiramente, foi realizado um estudo bibliográfico do Livro Branco da Tecnologia Assistiva no Brasil (2017), para reconhecimento dos desafios do mercado brasileiro. Em seguida, foi realizado um estudo sobre o cenário de crédito nacional, com foco em financiamento de TA. Para compreensão do mercado mundial, foi realizada uma pesquisa nos sites de análise de mercado de TA. Resultados: Há escassez de TA no Brasil. Os principais fornecedores são pequenas e médias empresas, e são escassos os incentivos fiscais e de crédito, assim como os investimentos em pesquisa, desenvolvimento e inovação. Em escala mundial, o mercado de TA foi avaliado em US$ 21,95 bilhões de dólares em 2022, devendo atingir o valor de US$ 31,22 bilhões de dólares até o ano de 2030. Conclusão: O mercado mundial de TA está em franca expansão e apresenta grande potencial de abertura para novos mercados. Esse cenário reflete um momento de oportunidades de negócio para as empresas nacionais.

Objective: Assistive Technology (AT) seeks to overcome or reduce the impact of deficiencies when performing everyday tasks. Although many people needed AT, in 2021, the WHO estimated that only one in ten people had access. With reduced supply and rising demand, a growing global movement of AT innovations was inspired, opening up a scenario of opportunities for this market. The objective of this study is to evaluate the AT market in Brazil and future projections on the global stage. Methods: The research was carried out in three stages. Firstly, a bibliographical study of the "White Book of Assistive Technology in Brazil" was carried out to recognize the challenges of the Brazilian market. Next, a study was carried out on the national credit scenario, focusing on TA financing. To understand the global market, research was carried out on TA market analysis websites. Results: There is a shortage of AT in Brazil. The main suppliers are small and medium-sized companies, and tax and credit incentives, as well as investments in Research, Development and Innovation, are scarce. On a global scale, the AT market was valued at US$ 21.95 billion in 2022, and is expected to reach a value of US$ 31.22 billion by the year 2030. Conclusion: The global AT market is in rapid expansion and presents great potential for opening up new markets. This scenario reflects a moment of business opportunities for national companies.

Construction of undergraduate curriculum courses of assistive technology using World Health Organization Rehabilitation Competency Framework / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo cultivate competent rehabilitation assistive technology workers and systematically develop the undergraduate curriculum courses of assistive technology using World Health Organization Rehabilitation Competency Framework (RCF) and International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). MethodsThe competence of assistive technology workers was discussed based on the ICF, RCF and the service needs of modern assistive devices and technology, and the undergraduate curriculum courses of rehabilitation assistive technology were developed referring to the national vocational competence standards. ResultsReferring to the national vocational competence standards, the entry-level competence of assistive technology workers was developed based on ICF and RCF. The objectives of undergraduate education were set. Moreover, the undergraduate curriculum courses and core course of assistive technology were developed. ConclusionThe undergraduate curriculum courses of assistive technology are developed using ICF and RCF. This will help improve the quantity and competency of rehabilitation assistive technology workers and increase the access for people with disabilities to obtain assistive technology.

Unmet needs for assistive technology and its related factors for persons with physical disabilities in Chengdu, China / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the unmet needs for assistive technology for people with physical disabilities in Chengdu, and analyze the related factors. MethodsFrom November, 2023 to March, 2024, the persons with physical disabilities in Chengdu were selected from Sichuan Individuation service platform, and investigated using World Health Organization rapid Assistive Technology Assessment. ResultsA total of 558 questionnaires were set up, and 527 effective questionnaires retured. 26.8% of them reported unmet needs for aids, with the highest need for mobility aids (66.0%). Lack of support (54.9%), high price (26.3%) and lack of knowledge about aids (20.3%) were the main reasons for not obtaining the aids they needed. Loss of spouse (OR = 3.615), serious mobility impairment (OR > 2.926) and serious self-care impairment (OR > 2.781) were the risks of unmet needs for aids. ConclusionIt is important to popularize policies and products of aids, pay attention to personal adaptation for people with different barriers, and strengthen the service system, to meet the needs of people with disabilities.

Assistive technology application in educational contexts: policy framework and core areas / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo study domestic and international policies and core areas related to assistive technology services for children with disabilities, to explore the application of assistive technology for children with special needs in the educational context. MethodsBased on the relevant policies and theoretical frameworks of policies on assistive technology services of United Nations, World Health Organization (WHO) and China, the policy frameworks and core areas of assistive technology in the educational context were analyzed using the theories of the six elements of the WHO assistive technology service system and the 5P service model, as well as the international and domestic classifications and directory lists of assistive technologies. ResultsInternational Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) gave the definition and classification of assistive technology in educational scenarios. With the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) as the core and the Assistive Technology for Children with Disabilities (ATD) strategy as the centerpiece of the international policy, the core areas of assistive technology application in educational settings were established with the 5P Model, consisting of five related areas, namely individuals, policies, products, practitioners and service delivery, based on the six elements of the WHO assistive technology service system, namely leadership and governance, financing, human resources for health, service delivery, medical technology and health information system. The ecosystem focused on people, policies, products, practitioners and services that promote access to and use of assistive technology. ConclusionThe policy and core areas for the application of assistive technology in educational contexts are formed on the basis of ICF, with the CRPD at the core, and the strategy of ATD, to define scientifically the definition; and promote assistive technology services for children with disabilities from the perspective of the right to comprehensive, efficient, and child-centered development, to provide usable, accessible, affordable, adaptable, acceptable and quality assistive technology services to ensure that children with disabilities enjoy equal and quality education, and to improve the quality of life and well-being. A human-centered assistive technology ecosystem can be established using 5P Model, to innovate and develop assistive technology services for children with disabilities.

Satisfação dos usuários de cadeiras de rodas da Região Metropolitana da Baixada Santista / Satisfaction of wheelchair users in the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region

Resumo O objetivo deste artigo é identificar a satisfação dos usuários em relação às cadeiras de rodas e à prestação de serviços públicos e privados de saúde da Região Metropolitana da Baixada Santista. Estudo transversal com abordagem quantitativa. Os participantes responderam a um questionário sociodemográfico e à versão brasileira do Quebec Assistive Technology User Satisfaction Assessment. Os dados foram analisados utilizando a estatística descritiva e comparativa por meio do teste t de Student. Os tamanhos de efeito d de Cohen foram calculados. Os participantes (n = 42) estavam "mais ou menos satisfeitos" com as cadeiras de rodas e "pouco satisfeitos" com a prestação de serviços. Os usuários de cadeiras de rodas monobloco apresentaram satisfação significativamente maior com suas cadeiras em comparação com usuários de cadeiras de rodas acima de 90kg (p = 0,010, d = 1,04). Os usuários de serviços privados apresentaram satisfação significativamente maior com a prestação de serviço em comparação aos usuários de serviços públicos (p = 0,021, d = 0,75). Os usuários de cadeiras de rodas da Região Metropolitana da Baixada Santista estão mais satisfeitos com as cadeiras de rodas monobloco e menos satisfeitos com os serviços públicos.

Abstract This article seeks to identify user satisfaction in relation to wheelchairs and the provision of public and private health services in the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region. It involved a cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach. Participants answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Brazilian version of the Quebec Assistive Technology User Satisfaction Assessment. Data were analyzed using descriptive and comparative statistics by means of Student's t test. Cohen's d effect sizes were also calculated. Participants (n = 42) were "more or less satisfied" with the wheelchairs and "quite satisfied" with the services provided. Rigid frame wheelchair users were significantly more satisfied with their wheelchairs compared to users of wheelchairs weighing over 198 lbs. (p = 0.010, d = 1.04). Users of private services showed significantly greater satisfaction with the provision of the service compared to public services users (p = 0.021, d = 0.75). Wheelchair users in the Baixada Santista Metropolitan Region are more satisfied with the rigid frame wheelchair and less satisfied with public services.

Método de Desenvolvimento das Habilidades de Comunicação no Autismo - DHACA: validação da aparência e do conteúdo / Method for Developing Communication Skills in Autism - DHACA: appearance and content validation

RESUMO Objetivo Validar a aparência e o conteúdo do método de Desenvolvimento das Habilidades de Comunicação no Autismo (DHACA). Método Trata-se de estudo de validação de abordagem quali-quantitativa. Participaram do estudo dez juízes fonoaudiólogos com expertise na área da comunicação alternativa. Os juízes receberam o livro de comunicação, bem como a descrição dos princípios, habilidades e estratégias do método DHACA e um formulário com itens relativos à apreciação da aparência e conteúdo do método. A validade foi calculada usando o índice de validade de conteúdo. Resultados A análise das respostas possibilitou o cálculo do grau de concordância entre os juízes e a elaboração da nova versão do instrumento. O cálculo do Índice de Validade de Conteúdo revelou uma validade de conteúdo excelente. Os juízes deram sugestões referentes aos aspectos de conteúdo do livro de comunicação, nos textos de participação do parceiro de comunicação e modelagem, uso de dicas e habilidades comunicativas. Conclusão O grau de concordância observado entre os juízes possibilitou a obtenção da validação da aparência e do conteúdo do método DHACA, considerando-se os itens isoladamente e o instrumento como um todo, podendo ter seu uso recomendado na prática clínica fonoaudiológica.

ABSTRACT Purpose To validate the appearance and content of the DHACA method to develop communication skills in autism. Methods This qualitative and quantitative validation study included 10 speech-language-hearing judges with expertise in alternative communication. The judges received the communication book, the description of the principles, skills, and strategies in the DHACA method, and a form with items for them to appraise the appearance and content of the method. The validity was calculated with the content validity index. Results The response analysis made it possible to calculate the degree of agreement between judges and develop the new instrument version. The calculation of the content validity index revealed excellent content validity. The judges made suggestions regarding the content of the communication book, texts regarding the participation of communication partners and modeling, using cues, and communicative skills. Conclusion The degree of agreement between judges ensured the validation of the appearance and content of the DHACA method, considering the items alone and the whole instrument. Hence, its use can be recommended for speech-language-hearing clinical practice.

Tecnologia auditiva assistiva em usuários de implante coclear em ambientes reverberantes com múltiplas fontes de ruído / Assistive listening technology in cochlear implant users in reverberant environments with multiple noise sources

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar a contribuição da tecnologia de escuta assistida em usuários de implante coclear (IC) em situações de reverberação e ruído. Métodos Estudo transversal prospectivo aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética Institucional (CAAE 8 3031418.4.0000.0068). Foram selecionados adolescentes e adultos usuários de IC com surdez pré ou pós-lingual. Para usuários bilaterais, cada orelha foi avaliada separadamente. O reconhecimento de fala foi avaliado por meio de listas gravadas de palavras dissílabas apresentadas a 65 dBA a 0° azimute com e sem o Mini Microfone2 (Cochlear™) conectado ao processador de fala Nucleus®6. A reverberação da sala foi medida como 550 ms. Para avaliar a contribuição do dispositivo de escuta assistida (DEA) em ambiente reverberante, o reconhecimento de fala foi avaliado no silêncio. Para avaliar a contribuição do DEA em reverberação e ruído, o reconhecimento de fala foi apresentado a 0° azimute com o ruído proveniente de 8 alto-falantes dispostos simetricamente a 2 metros de distância do centro com ruído de múltiplos falantes usando relação sinal-ruído de +10dB. Para evitar viés de aprendizado ou fadiga, a ordem dos testes foi randomizada. A comparação das médias foi analisada pelo teste t para amostras pareadas, adotando-se nível de significância de p<0,005. Resultados Dezessete pacientes com idade média de 40 anos foram convidados e concordaram em participar, sendo 2 participantes bilaterais, totalizando 19 orelhas. Houve contribuição positiva significante do Mini Mic2 na reverberação e ruído+reverberação (p<0,001). Conclusão DEA foi capaz de melhorar o reconhecimento de fala de usuários de IC tanto em situações de reverberação quanto ruidosas.

ABSTRACT Purpose This study aimed to evaluate the contribution of assistive listening technology with wireless connectivity in cochlear implant (CI) users in reverberating and noise situations. Methods Prospective cross-sectional study approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee (CAAE 8 3031418.4.0000.0068). Adolescents and adults CI users with pre- or post-lingual deafness were selected. For bilateral users, each ear was assessed separately. Speech recognition was assessed using recorded lists of disyllabic words presented at 65 dBA at 0° azimuth with and without the Wireless Mini Microphone 2 (Cochlear™) connected to the Nucleus®6 speech processor. Room reverberation was measured as 550 ms. To assess the contribution of the assistive listening device (ALD) in a reverberating environment, speech recognition was assessed in quiet. To assess the contribution of the ALD in reverberation and noise, speech recognition was presented at 0° azimuth along with the noise coming from 8 loudspeakers symmetrically arranged 2 meters away from the center with multi-talker babble noise using signal to noise ratio of +10dB. To avoid learning bias or fatigue, the order of the tests was randomized. Comparison of means was analyzed by t test for paired samples, adopting significance level of p <0.005. Results Seventeen patients with a mean age of 40 years were invited and agreed to participate, with 2 bilateral participants, totaling 19 ears assessed. There was a significant positive contribution from the Mini Mic2 in reverberation, and noise+reverberation (p <0.001). Conclusion ALD was able to improve speech recognition of CI users in both reverberation and noisy situations.

Educação física e tecnologia assistiva para inclusão escolar de estudantes da educação especial: uma revisão sistemática / Educación física y tecnología asistiva para la inclusión de estudiantes de educación especial: una revisión sistemática / Physical education and assistive technology for school inclusion of special education students: a systematic review

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi verificar a produção científica envolvendo as áreas de conhecimento Educação Física (EF) e a Tecnologia Assistiva (TA) como possibilidade de inclusão nas aulas de EF escolar. Trata-se de revisão sistemática da literatura, utilizando as palavras chave "Physical Education" e "Assistive Technology" para busca no portal Periódicos da CAPES. Após aplicados os critérios de inclusão e exclusão, foram identificados na base de dados 715 estudos e adicionados dois pela busca manual. A leitura na íntegra resultou na inclusão de sete estudos. Os resultados apontam que há carência de pesquisas aplicadas sobre o tema, sendo que três tratavam de produtos e recursos, três de estratégias e apenas um de programa de ensino no contexto escolar. Conclui-se que há necessidade de novas pesquisas aplicadas utilizando os conceitos da TA com o intuito de verificar seus efeitos no contexto da inclusão escolar nas aulas de EF.

Resumen El objetivo fue verificar la producción científica involucrando las áreas de conocimiento Educación Física (EF) y Tecnología Asistiva (TA) como posibilidad de inclusión en las clases escolares de EF. Se trata de una revisión sistemática de la literatura, utilizando las palabras clave "Educación Física" y "Tecnología Asistiva" en el portal de revistas de la CAPES. Después de aplicar los criterios de inclusión y exclusión, se identificaron 715 estudios y se agregaron dos por búsqueda manual. La lectura completa resultó en la inclusión de siete estudios. Los resultados indican que existe una falta de investigación aplicada sobre el tema, uno con entrevistas y otro referido a los efectos de la TA en la inclusión del PAEE. Se concluye que existe la necesidad de nuevas investigaciones aplicadas utilizando conceptos de TA y con el objetivo de verificar sus efectos en el contexto de la inclusión escolar en las clases de EF.

Abstract The objective of the study was to verify the scientific production involving the areas of Physical Education (PE) and Assistive Technology (AT) as a possibility of inclusion in school PE classes. This is a systematic literature review, using the keywords "Physical Education" and "Assistive Technology" to search the CAPES journal portal. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 715 studies were identified in the database and two were added by manual search. Reading in full resulted in the inclusion of seven studies. The results indicate that there is a lack of applied research on the subject. Only two studies were applied, one using interviews, and the other referring to the effects of AT on the inclusion of the PAEE. It is concluded that there is a need for new applied research using AT concepts and aiming to verify its effects in the context of school inclusion in PE classes.

Validação de tecnologia assistiva para mães e pais com deficiência visual: enfoque na introdução alimentar do lactente / Validation of assistive technology for mothers and fathers with visual impairment: focus on infant feeding introduction

RESUMO Mães e pais com deficiência visual podem ter dificuldades na introdução alimentar de seus filhos. Desse modo, foi desenvolvida uma Tecnologia Assistiva (TA) sobre essa temática. Objetivou-se, assim, validar a TA sobre introdução alimentar do lactente. Trata-se de um estudo metodológico conforme adaptação do modelo de Pasquali (2010). A TA foi previamente construída e avaliada por especialistas e por um teste piloto com a população meta. O presente estudo contemplou o polo empírico, por meio do qual a TA foi avaliada por um novo e amplo grupo de mães e pais. Todos responderam a um instrumento em formato de escala do tipo Lickert a respeito do conteúdo, dos aspectos pedagógicos e da acessibilidade da TA. Outrossim, o estudo contemplou o polo analítico por meio da análise estatística dos dados. Respeitaram-se os aspectos éticos de pesquisas envolvendo seres humanos. Participaram 89 mães e pais, principalmente mulheres (53,9%), com deficiência visual congênita (55,1%), com idade média de 37,91 anos, não casados (52,8%), com ensino médio (60,7%) e exercendo atividade remunerada (56,2%). Dentre os tópicos da tecnologia, todos apresentaram médias favoráveis, sendo melhor avaliado o conteúdo (91,1±11,7), seguido de acesso online (84,4±18,9) e aspectos pedagógicos (82,9±15,9). A TA é meio válido de disseminação de informações a mães e pais com deficiência visual.

ABSTRACT Mothers and fathers with visual impairments may have difficulty introducing their children to food. In this way, an Assistive Technology (AT) was developed on this topic. The objective, therefore, was to validate the AT on infant food introduction. This is a methodological study according to the adaptation of the Pasquali's (2010) model. The AT was previously constructed and evaluated by experts and through a pilot testing with the target population. The present study considered the empirical pole, through which the AT was assessed by a new and broad group of mothers and fathers. Everyone responded to an instrument in a Lickert scale format regarding the content, pedagogical aspects and accessibility of AT. Furthermore, the study also included an analytical pole through statistical analysis of the data. The ethical aspects of research involving human beings were respected. Eighty-nine mothers and fathers participated, mainly women (53.9%), with congenital visual impairment (55.1%), with average age of 37.91 years old, not married (52.8%), with secondary education (60.7% ) and carrying out paid work (56.2%). Among the technology topics, all presented favorable averages, with content being best evaluated (91.1±11.7), followed by online access (84.4±18.9) and pedagogical aspects (82.9±15.9). The AT is a valid means of disseminating information to mothers and fathers with visual impairments.

Criterios de referencia y barreras para la atención de personas con baja visión en Santander / Criteria for referral and barriers to care for people with low vision in Santander

Objetivo: Identificar criterios de derivación y barreras percibidas por los optómetras para la rehabilitación de personas con baja visión en Santander. Métodos: Estudio de corte transversal que incluyó 82 optómetras de municipios de Santander, seleccionados mediante muestreo intencionado. Se diseñó un cuestionario con 36 preguntas para recolectar los datos que son reportados empleando estadística descriptiva. Resultados: El 47,5 % de los profesionales tiene claro el nivel de agudeza visual para clasificar a una persona con baja visión. Las principales barreras identificadas para el acceso a servicios de baja visión fueron: el proceso de derivación dentro del sistema de salud es engorroso (74,39 %), falta de servicios cerca (57,31 %) y considerar que los pacientes no pueden pagar las ayudas (48,78 %). Discusión: Es necesario fortalecer la formación de los optómetras para mejorar los procesos de identificación, atención y rehabilitación. Conclusiones: Es importante ubicar como prioritaria la discapacidad visual en Santander, para así robustecer la red de atención en salud.

Objective: To identify referral criteria and barriers perceived by optometrists for the rehabilitation of people with low vision in Santander. Methods: Cross-sectional study, which included 82 optometrists from municipalities of Santander, selected by purposive sampling. A questionnaire with 36 questions was designed to collect data that are reported using descriptive statistics. Results: A total of 47.5% of the professionals are clear about the level of visual acuity to classify a person with low vision. The main barriers identified for access to low vision services were: the referral process within the health system is cumbersome (74.39%), lack of services nearby (57.31%) and considering that patients cannot afford the aids (48.78%). Discussion: It is necessary to strengthen the training of optometrists to improve the processes of identification, care and rehabilitation. Conclusions: It is important to prioritize visual impairment in Santander in order to strengthen the health care network.

Improving assistive technology access to students with low vision and blindness in Delhi: A school-based model

Purpose: Assistive technology (AT) has recently received considerable attention around the world. Studies have shown poor access to assistive technology for visual impairment (ATVI) in schools for the blind in India. The present article aimed at designing a school?based model to improve AT access in schools and provide hands?on training, and identify types of ocular morbidities present among students. Methods: The vision rehabilitation (VR) team of a tertiary eye?care center visited schools for the blind as a part of community? based VR services. The team conducted a basic eye examination and assessed best?corrected vision acuity (BCVA) and provided VR services. Furthermore, two schools were selected to establish an ATVI learning center as a pilot model. Results: In total, 1887 students were registered for VR and obtained their disability certificates in 2019?20. Retina problems (25.7%), globe abnormalities (25.5%), optic nerve atrophy (13.6%), and squint (12.0%) were common ocular problems identified in students. Around 50.3% of students had BCVA ³ 1/60 in the better eye who would be benefited from visual?based AT, and the remaining students with visual substitution AT. Further, 20.8% of them who had near vision between N18 to N24 would be benefitted from large print books. Two schools were provided ATVI with support from the WHO. Familiarization, demonstration, and initial training for ATVI were carried out. Conclusion: A sizable number of the students would be benefitted from visual?based AT apart from visual substitutions AT. Students were interested to have such ATVI centers in the school for academic and non?academic skills development.

Demand, supply and satisfaction of assistive technology in China based on rapid Assistive Technology Assessment data / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the demand, supply and satisfaction of the Chinese people on assistive technology. MethodsBased on the data from the World Health Organization rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA) questionnaire in six provinces and cities in China, the assistive technology of the whole population in China was described from three aspects of demand, supply and satisfaction. ResultsA total of 15 234 valid questionnaires were obtained. In terms of demand, the proportion of visual impairment was the highest in all the functional impairment categories, the highest demands in the list were glasses (low-vision, short/long distance etc.) and walking sticks (canes/sticks, tripod and quadripod), while the highest demand outside the list was anti-skid pad. In terms of supply, the private sector was the main one, followed by government facility and public hospital, and most users took "paid out-of-pocket (self)" to obtain assistive technology, the distance to access the assistive technology was concentrated at "less than five kilometers", and the biggest obstacle to obtain assistive technology was lack of knowledge about assistive technology. Overall satisfaction with assistive technology was optimistic, the adaptation degree and service quality of assistive technology were the most unsatisfactory factors for users. ConclusionIn China, the satisfaction of assistive technology is optimistic, and there is a few amount of unmet assistive technology. It is necessary to propagandize assistive technology, and its manual should be readable, the assistive technical service team should be multidisciplinary, enterprises should promote independent innovation, and the professionals should be regulated.

Exploration and development of rehabilitation and assistive devices at home and abroad / 上海预防医学

With a rapidly aging population， there is a huge potential demand for rehabilitation and assistive products and services. Especially in the global context where greater attention is given to disadvantaged groups， there is a need to cater to the needs of the elderly in terms of rehabilitation and assistive aid to improve their quality of life. Compared with developed countries， China’s rehabilitation aid industry is still in its early stages of development and needs to move away from traditional equipment manufacturing and integrate with intelligent manufacturing to provide more development possibilities and choices. International cooperation is expected to become one of the future research and development directions for rehabilitation aids. Taking typical cities and countries at home and abroad as examples， this paper explores the development of rehabilitation aids， and calls for the cultivation of more rehabilitation aid professionals to help more people in need.

Application value of new assistive technology in keratopathy-associated cataract surgery / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

Keratopathy-associated cataract, that is, on the basis of corneal disease, and later the development of lens opacity, seriously damage visual quality. In order to avoid corneal transplantation for some patients, partial visual quality can be restored. A comprehensive and accurate evaluation of the effect of corneal opacity on visual function is of great improtance for determining cataract surgery alone. Due to the opacity of the cornea, the operation is very difficult and challenging. Therefore, it is of clinical value to develop and use new assistive technologies, including capsule staining, endoillumination, pupil dialation technology, femtosecond laser assisted technology, etc., avoiding problems such as limited visibility and decreased light flow caused by corneal opacity and facilitating cataract surgery. This article reviews progress of assistive technologies for keratopathy-associated cataract, hoping to guide clinical application.

Advantages and disadvantages of ureteroscope in the diagnosis and treatment of upper tract urothelial carcinoma / 现代泌尿外科杂志

Ureteroscopy plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC). Conventional ureteroscopy (URS) can not only identify the location, appearance and size of a tumor, but also assess tumor grade by biopsy. The continued development of electronic flexible ureteroscopy and assistive technologies has led to further advances in the diagnosis of UTUC. Ureteroscopic laser ablation can be used to treat low grade malignancy, renal insufficiency, or isolated kidney. However, the use of URS may have potential risks such as delay of radical treatment, increased surgical difficulty, intraoperative or postoperative complications and intravesical recurrence. This article reviews the advantages and disadvantages of ureteroscopy in the diagnosis and treatment of UTUC.

Accessible facilities construction and assistive technology application of public sports venues in Shenzhen, Guangdong, China / 中国康复理论与实践

ObjectiveTo investigate the current situation of accessible facilities construction and assistive technology application of existing sports venues in Shenzhen, and analyze the existing problems. MethodsFrom November 19, 2022 to Februry 17, 2023, using the standards for the construction of accessible sports venues, the accessible construction and services of public sports venues and the application of assistive technology in eight districts of Shenzhen were investigated and evaluated on the spot. ResultsThere were curb ramps and accessible public toilets for all the stadiums; surface indicator for 87.5% (7/8) stadiums; wheelchair ramps, accessible elevators and accessible wheelchair seats for 62.5% (5/8) stadiums; accessible route for 37.5% (3/8) stadiums; handrails for 12.5% (1/8) stadiums; accessible vehicles parking lots for 75% (6/8) stadiums; and 25% (2/8) stadiums used assistive technology. ConclusionThis study evaluated the accessibility of accessible facilities and assistive technologies in sports venues in Shenzhen, including entering the stadium, entering the interior of the stadium and taking exercise. In terms of accessible facilities, the number of venues for the construction of curb ramps and accessible public toilets is the most, the number of venues for the construction of accessible handrails is the least, and the application of assistive technology is the worst.

Ensino de tecnologia assistiva nos cursos de graduação em terapia ocupacional do Estado de São Paulo / Teaching assistive technology in undergraduate courses in occupational therapy in the State of São Paulo

Resumo Introdução O conhecimento sobre tecnologia assistiva relaciona-se aos aspectos do domínio da terapia ocupacional, assim, interroga-se se tal conhecimento tem sido abordado nos cursos de graduação. Objetivos Identificar os cursos de graduação em terapia ocupacional no estado de São Paulo que ofertam discipinas referentes à tecnologia assistiva, identificar as disciplinas, suas respectivas cargas horárias e o conteúdo presente em cada uma delas. Método A amostra foi composta por oito universidades, cinco públicas e três privadas. A busca foi feita nas matrizes curriculares, planos de ensino de disciplinas específicas e não específicas, objetivos e conteúdos disponibilizados on-line ou solicitados ao coordenador de curso. Realizou-se análise descritiva dos dados. Resultados Constatou-se a oferta do conteúdo de tecnologia assistiva nas universidades investigadas, com diferença entre a carga horária e o conteúdo ofertado. A análise por área de aplicação da tecnologia assistiva evidenciou que o conteúdo sobre órteses é oferecido em 100% dos cursos analisados, seguido de produtos assistivos para o desempenho de atividades cotidianas e de prótese, ambos conteúdos encontrados em 75% dos cursos; equipamentos para mobilidade; acessibilidade e desenho universal em 62,5%; comunicação alternativa em 50% dos cursos. Conclusão Os resultados apontam a relevância de uma maior homogeneidade de conteúdo entre as universidades investigadas e sugerem que este estudo tem potencial para fomentar discussões sobre a formação do terapauta ocupacional na área da tecnologia assistiva, uma vez que os resultados advêm da análise dos cursos de graduação localizados no estado que possui o maior número de cursos de terapia ocupacional no Brasil.

Abstract Introduction Knowledge about assistive technology is related to aspects of the field of occupational therapy, thus, it is questioned whether such knowledge has been addressed in undergraduate courses. Objectives To identify the undergraduate courses in occupational therapy in the state of São Paulo that offer disciplines related to assistive technology, identify the disciplines, their respective workloads and the content present in each of them. Method The sample consisted of eight universities, five public and three private. The search was made in the curricular matrices, teaching plans of specific and non-specific disciplines, objectives and contents available online or requested from the course coordinator. Descriptive data analysis was performed. Results It was found that assistive technology content was offered in the investigated universities, with a difference between the workload and the content offered. The analysis by assistive technology application area showed that the content on orthoses is offered in 100% of the analyzed courses, followed by assistive products for the performance of daily activities and prostheses, both contents found in 75% of the courses; mobility equipment; accessibility and universal design in 62.5%; alternative communication in 50% of the courses. Conclusion The results point to the relevance of greater homogeneity of content between the investigated universities and suggest that this study has the potential to foster discussions about the formation of occupational therapists in the assistive technology area, since the results come from the analysis of undergraduate courses located in the state which has the largest number of occupational therapy courses in Brazil.

Ensaio sobre a aderência ao modelo nacional de bengala eletrônica Smart Mobb® como recurso auxiliar à mobilidade de pessoas com cegueira ou baixa visão / Essay on adherence to the national model of electronic walking stick Smart Mobb® as a resource to assist the mobility of people with blindness or low vision

Objetivo: O objetivo deste trabalho foi identificar, por meio da interposição de questionário, pontos favoráveis e pontos potencialmente impeditivos à compra da Smart Mobb® como tecnologia assistiva auxiliar à mobilidade de pessoas com deficiência visual. Métodos: A aplicação do questionário foi realizada na Fundação Dorina Nowill para Cegos, instituição especializada no atendimento e reabilitação de pessoas com deficiência visual. A entrevista consistiu em perguntas sobre o perfil socioeconômico, social, tecnológico, sob o contexto das tecnologias assistivas, e de saúde, relativas ao indivíduo e às dificuldades que ele enfrenta no dia a dia por causa do seu quadro de deficiência visual. Resultados: Foram entrevistados oito candidatos. Os resultados indicaram que a Smart Mobb® possui características que apresentam identidade com as preferências relatadas pelas pessoas que participaram do estudo, apresentando inconsistência apenas quanto ao valor médio mensal estimado para venda e ao que esses indivíduos estão dispostos a pagar. Conclusão: Verificou-se que existe o desejo, por parte dos potenciais demandantes, quanto a soluções em tecnologias assistivas que carreguem maior teor tecnológico e que surjam como proposta de solução para o problema da mobilidade urbana. Com relação ao preço, a maioria dos entrevistados está disposta a pagar um percentual médio mensal abaixo do mínimo estipulado para a aquisição da bengala eletrônica Smart Mobb® , o que configura um potencial fator impeditivo à adesão

Objective: The objective of this work was to identify, through the questionnaire, favorable points and potentially impeding points for the purchase of Smart Mobb® as an auxiliary mobility technology for people with visual impairments. Methods: The questionnaire was applied at the Dorina Nowill Foundation for the Blind, an institution specialized in the care and rehabilitation of visually impaired people. The interview consisted of questions about the socioeconomic profile; Social; technological, in the context of assistive technologies; and health, including the individual and the difficulties he faces on a daily basis using his visual impairment. Results: Eight candidates were interviewed. The results indicate that Smart Mobb® has features that display the identity with respect to the people who study, showing inconsistency only in terms of the estimated average monthly value for sale and that these items are available for payment. Conclusion: It was found that it exists or desires, on the part of users who demand as much solutions in assisted technologies that carry greater technological content, and that appear as a solution proposal for the problem of urban mobility. With regard to price, most respondents are willing to pay an average monthly percentage below the minimum stipulated for the purchase of the Smart Mobb® electronic cane, or to set up a potential impediment to adherence

A rapid literature review on the strategies for collaboration between occupational therapists and speech-language therapists in the field of augmentative and alternative communication

@#An alternative and augmentative communication (AAC) device replaces or supplements a person’s natural speech. Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) collaborate with a team of healthcare professionals in the process of identification and use of the right AAC device for a person with complex communication needs (CCN). In the Philippines, occupational therapists (OTs) and SLPs are more likely to collaborate in the treatment of their clients due to their interprofessional education (IPE) experience. However, most Filipino SLPs do not engage in interprofessional collaboration (IPC) when rendering AAC services. Thus, there is a need to identify existing literature that tackles collaborative practices to raise the quality of service and care. Hence, this study aimed to identify and discuss existing literature that documented IPE and IPC strategies between OTs and SLPs in the field of AAC. The structure of this literature review was guided and adapted from the topics outlined in the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). Literature archived in two databases (Pubmed and Scopus) were reviewed. Two articles out of five studies were included in this review. Strategies found were “case based learning approach” for post-graduate students and the “Beyond Access model” in supporting practitioners. In conclusion, there is a dearth of literature on IPC practices among OTs and SLPs in the field of AAC. There is a need to report IPE and IPC efforts in the Philippines to provide applicable strategies to the local healthcare landscape.

Framework and Core Content of International Policy on Service of Assistive Technology / 中国康复理论与实践

Objective:To study the policy framework and core content of assistive technology (AT) services, compare the current status of AT in countries with different levels of development, and discuss the future development of international policies and services of AT. Methods:Based on the policy and theoretical framework of AT of the United Nations (UN) and World Health Organization (WHO), the policy framework and main contents of international AT services were analyzed; the policies, assistive products and service development of AT services in countries with different levels of development worldwide were compared; and the policy and innovative technology development hotspots of international AT were explored. Results:AT service is an important component of rehabilitation services, and the development of AT services is a key step toward achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3, "Ensure healthy lifestyles and promote the well-being of people of all ages". UN and WHO advocated AT services policy. The framework is based on the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) on articles related to AT, and WHO documents of AT and rehabilitation, such as World Report on Disability, the Global Plan of Action on Disability, Rehabilitation in the Health System, and Rehabilitation in the Health System: A Guide to Action, as well as WHA 71.8 on Assistive Technology, Improving Access to Assistive Technology. The core elements of the international AT policy aim to build integrated, people-centered health services, emphasize the integration of AT into the health system and rehabilitation services, establish and develop AT services in six building blocks of WHO health system, thereby improving access to quality AT to achieve universal health coverage. Further in the fields of technology and service innovation, it proposed to establish a 5P model. High-income countries and low- and middle-income countries are facing many difficulties and large differences in AT service policies, assistive product provision, and service coverage. In the future, adoption of the 5P model proposed by WHO for policy and service delivery and technological changes, and the innovation of assistive product development and AT service models will be the hot spots of AT development. Conclusion:The policy on AT at international level is centered on the concept of UN CRPD and is based on prospect of policy documents issued by the UN and WHO on AT services, with the core objective of developing AT services to provide timely, appropriate, and affordable to persons with disabilities, aging, and people needed to improve their health, quality of life and well-being. It proposes to integrate AT into universal health coverage and to deliver AT service through primary health care in order to achieve the UN SDG 3 goal with full coverage of AT. It proposes to integrate AT into rehabilitation services, i.e. leadership and governance, financing, AT professionals, AT delivery, medicine and technology, and health information system monitoring AT services. There are differneces in AT products and AT delivery due to the globel differneces in economic and social development levels and challenges in access to AT services. It is necessary to develop relevant policies, planning and innovations in assistive products and AT services. AT development in the future will focus on the 5P model of AT to implement reforms in the field of product and service delivery as well as technological innovation in order to improve the coverage, availability, accessibility and affordability, integrate AT into the health system within the framework of universal health coverage, achieve full coverage of universal AT services, and enhance the quality of AT and improve consumers' well-being.