Assistive technology: a dynamic tool to deal with the changing needs of people with disabilities.

Due to the accelerating rate of the industry's constant innovations, more users become dependent on the most recent technology available on the market. Assistive technology is no exception, as the needs of people with disabilities are constantly changing. A retrospective transversal cohort study was designed in order to evaluate the needs of people with disabilities in relation to assistive technology, and how these needs change over time. This study compares the needs of people with disabilities over the last five years, based on the 952 participants' personal experience in the assistive technology study carried out by Puerto Rico Assistive Technology Program (PRATP) from March 2003 to March 2007. Various statistical tests were carried out in order to determine if there is a significant difference between the reported assistive technology needs and the years of the study. Test results showed a significant statistical association between participants' knowledge level of assistive technology and the years of the study. Similarly, it showed a significant difference between the priority work areas and the years of the study. Besides, statistical associations between sectors, types of disabilities, and work priorities were established in order to determine areas of need in accordance with consumers or service providers' characteristics or particular interests.

Assistive technology: a health care reform for people with disabilities.

Assistive technology has become one of the most powerful tools in assisting people with disabilities fight for social equality both in Puerto Rico as well as in other cities worldwide. In spite of this, the availability of assistive technology equipment does not constitute reason enough for people with disabilities to have all the technology resources for making them independent and productive in a society as competitive as ours. An assistive technology evaluation process is recommended in order to achieve an optimum level of self-sufficiency in people with disabilities. The evaluation process should take into consideration both the individual's needs and strength and the advantages and disadvantages of the equipment. The main purpose of this research was to determine the satisfaction level of 69 consumers evaluated at the Assistive Technology Integrated Services Center. These evaluations were conducted during 2001-2005. Statistical tests including distribution of frequencies, chi-square, bivariate and variance analysis were produced in order to determine if a scientific association existed between the consumers' level of satisfaction with the services and the assisted conditions. The data analysis results showed a significant difference between the satisfaction level with consumer's age, type of disability, and recommended equipment acquisition. Besides, statistical associations were established between general satisfaction concept dimensions, type of disability, and consumers' particular characteristics.