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

ABSTRACT

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.