Assistive technology and older adults

The population of individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is projected to double by the year 2030 as a result of the aging population and the continued increase in life expectancy. Older adults with IDD usually have poor health with functional dependence, restricted activities, and limited participation. The increase in the prevalence of older adults living with IDD equates with substantial increase in formal and informal caregiving demands by the individuals. Assistive technology (AT) can potentially help the individuals gain functional autonomy and thereby decreasing the burden on family members and caregivers to provide assistance. AT can assist the individuals with accomplishing daily activities of living, mobility, environmental control (e.g. lock or unlock doors), communication (particularly for individuals with communication difficulties), education, employment, sport and recreation. However, despite the noted benefits of AT, lack of availability and accessibility of information and evaluation, costs, and limited training on how to use AT are reported to be the main reasons responsible for mitigating the use of AT. Efforts should be made to facilitate the use of appropriate forms of AT in order to improve the individual’s functional independence, mobility, participation and quality of life.