Predictors of Assistive Technology Use: The Importance of Personal and Psychosocial Factors
By Scherer, Marcia J.; Sax, Caren; Vanbiervliet, Alan; Cushman, Laura A.; Scherer, John V.; Disability and Rehabilitation, Vol. 27, No. 21, pp. 1321-1331Publication Date: 2005
Study conducted to validate the Assistive Technology Device Predisposition Assessment (ATD PA), which is an AT baseline and outcomes measure. The researchers also aimed to quantify the measure’s value in determining the best match of consumer and AT in terms of consumer ratings of mood, quality of life, support from others, motivation for AT usage, self-determination/self-esteem, and program/therapist reliance. More than 150 vocational rehabilitation counselors in 25 states participated in the study. Each participant received counselor training in the ATD PA, while one of their clients completed the Matching Person and Technology (MPT) assessment for purposes of validation. The ATD PA proved to be a valid measure of predisposition of AT usage, and of the match between AT and users. The authors contend that rehabilitation professionals who utilize the ATD PA will meet the standards of evidence-based practice, and should see improvements in AT service delivery outcomes.
Assistive Products Discussed: MATCHING PERSON & TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT PROCESS AND FORMS
Published by: Taylor & Francis, Limited (Website:http://taylorandfrancis.org)
International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine (Web Site: http://www.isprm.org )
