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How OTs are shaping the future of digital assistive tech

A recent survey by Claudia von Zweck at the University of Ottawa, in collaboration with representatives of the World Federation of Occupational Therapists (WFOT) and the Swiss School of Social Work and Health (HETSL), sheds light on how occupational therapists are working with DAT and the global challenges they encounter.

The field of occupational therapy (OT) has long been dedicated to helping people enhance their independence, functionality, and well-being, particularly through the use of assistive technology (AT). The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes the vital role of AT in improving the quality of life for people with disabilities, estimating that over 2.5 billion individuals will require such technology by 2050. With the increasing digitalization of our society, the scope of AT has expanded to include digital assistive technology (DAT), offering innovative new ways to engage with the digital world. 

Who can benefit?
According to the survey, OT s play a key role in the provision of digital assistive technology and are primarily responsible for assessing the needs of their clients, offering guidance on DAT options, providing training, and ensuring that the technology is properly integrated into the individual’s environment. The clients who benefit from digital technologies are often those with neurological conditions, sensory impairments, chronic illnesses, and older adults. Its use supports activities like education, work, leisure, and social interaction, with the ultimate goal of improving independence, self-esteem, and occupational participation.

However, results show that the provision of DAT presents its own set of challenges. Many practitioners report barriers related to the high cost of products and limited access to necessary funding. The disparity in digital literacy and access to technology also complicates the delivery of DAT, highlighting a so-called ‘global digital divide’. This divide is not only evident between countries but also within nations, where factors like socioeconomic status and geographic location can restrict access to essential digital tools.

Challenges and opportunities
While digitalization offers promising advancements, it also creates inequities in accessing technology and digital literacy. The survey revealed that OTs in Western countries, where internet access and digital literacy are more commonplace, are more engaged with DAT provision than their counterparts in regions with fewer resources. As a result, clients in resource-limited settings may have less access to digital tools that could significantly enhance their lives.

Occupational therapists are also increasingly recognizing the importance of digital literacy as part of their therapy plans. Digital literacy—defined as the ability to use technology effectively to communicate, access information, and participate in daily activities—has become a critical skill in navigating modern life. For clients living with a range of disabilities, digital literacy can promote greater independence and social engagement with OTs playing an important role in client education related to the use digital tools, It should be noted that proficiency with DAT can vary based on the availability of training and resources for both OT’s and their clients.

Addressing barriers and promoting inclusion
One of the major barriers to DAT provision is the cost of the technology itself. Many survey respondents reported that the products were too expensive for clients to afford, especially in low-income countries or underserved communities. In some cases, where insurance coverage is available, it does not cover DAT—which further limits access. Consequently, significant price tags, combined with limited funding and inadequate resources, creates significant difficulties when it comes to ensuring that DAT reaches those who need it most.

The good news: The survey highlights that when DAT is accessible, it has a profound impact on individuals’ lives. Clients report high levels of satisfaction and increased self-efficacy when using DAT, highlighting the value of these technologies in supporting autonomy and participation. However, to further improve DAT provision, the global occupational therapy community will need to address knowledge gaps, find ways to reduce the cost of technology, and advocate for policies that increase individual access to funding and resources.

Looking ahead
While many challenges remain, the WFOT and HETSL survey confirms that digital assistive technologies hold significant transformative potential now and in the years to come. To harness them, occupational therapists must continue to advance their understanding of rapidly advancing digital world, advocate for equitable access, and work collaboratively with technology developers to ensure that their tools are effective, affordable, and accessible to all.

Kaylie Dolan is a graduate student in International Migration and Public Policy at the London School of Economics and Political Science, and a freelance writer for the Canadian Abilities Foundation.

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