The demand for assistive technology, services, and satisfaction self-reports among people with disabilities in China.

Abstract

Purpose: Assistive device non-use among individuals with disabilities is often attributed to issues in service provision and user satisfaction with assistive devices. However, systematic research on the service quality and satisfaction of assistive devices among disabled populations is lacking. Therefore, this study aims to analyze the service delivery and satisfaction of assistive devices among individuals with disabilities.

Method: The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) was employed in this study to examine the self-reported needs and usage of assistive devices by people with disabilities in China and to explore the relationship between service provision and satisfaction with assistive devices. Additionally, potential mechanisms underlying this relationship were evaluated. The World Health Organization's Rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA) questionnaire was utilized, and stratified sampling was employed. A total of 872 individuals with disabilities living in China were interviewed. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the independent and interactive relationships between service provision and satisfaction.

Results: Self-reported demand for assistive technology was associated with the type of disability. Pre-fitting evaluation and training services were positively correlated with satisfaction (β=0.514, p<0.05). However, no significant effect of post-fitting maintenance services on product satisfaction was found, and the moderating effect of service convenience was not significant.

Conclusions: Policy formulation can adjust resource allocation based on the composition of its disabled population. Priority should be given to providing mobility aids and other basic equipment for people with multiple disabilities to enhance the effectiveness and pertinence of assistive services. The capacity for post-installation maintenance of assistive technologies and the accessibility of services should be improved to ensure that disabled people can continuously benefit from assistive devices. Extensive educational and publicity activities should be carried out to raise people's awareness of the importance of pre-assembly assessment, training services, and post-assembly maintenance services. The importance of disease prevention, early intervention, and rehabilitation to reduce the disability rate has been emphasized.