• Kuo, H. J., & Kosciulek, J. F. (2021). Rehabilitation counsellor perceived importance and competence in assistive technology. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology. https://doi.org/10.1080/17483107.2021.2001062
• Connor, A., Kuo, H. J., & Leahy, M. J. (2018). Assistive technology in pre-service rehabilitation counselor education: a new approach to team collaboration. Rehabilitation Research, Policy, and Education, 32(1), 20–37. https://doi.org/10.1891/2168-6653.32.1.20
• Kuo, H. J., Connor, A., & Yeomans, M. (2023). Users of assistive technology: the human component in Marini, I., Bishop, M., & Fleming, A (Eds.). Psychological and Social Impact of Chronic Illness and Disability. Springer.

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is defined as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities." Evidently, assistive technology is an effective way to promote participation from people with disabilities in education and employment pursuit. Although it is proven to be helpful, the tricky part is what professionals are equipped to provide such services. Traditionally, the assumption is that rehabilitation engineers can design and develop devices that are helpful to the individuals with disabilities, and medical experts can help with the implementations. 

Challenges of AT

Although assistive technology is effective in improving accessibility for individuals with functional limitations, it is not a magic wand. The medical model of thinking is that if there is equipment that helps the individuals "correct" their functional limitations, problems are solved. However, is it really? How about attitudinal barriers? how about the stigma that may be provoked by using assistive technology? In the case of an individual with an invisible disability such as dementia. Whether to disclose one's disability is a personal choice, but with the use of AT, it becomes not so much of a choice. This explains the high AT abandon rate. 

Rehabilitation Counselor

Rehabilitation counseling is a unique profession that has a deep understanding of the physical and psychological aspects of a person. Their unique training equips them with the knowledge and skills to serve as a bridge between the individuals with disabilities and the assistive technology developers. A rehabilitation counselor can facilitate the assessments for personalized services, communicate with different professionals, train individuals to use the technology, and provide counseling needs for daily use of AT devices. 

What do we know

A successful AT implementation takes more than a professional and the individual with a disability. In fact, a team approach is vital to address the different needs of the person and environment. Connor and I proposed an transdisciplinary approach is needed so that everyone in the team has the same goal and understanding of each other's role in delivering the service. It must be noted that each role in the team is complimenting others. Please see the model below.