Assistive technologies like specialised wheelchairs, running blades, release braces have revolutionised para sports, giving athletes better inclusivity and performance.
About Assistive Technology
- Assistive technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities.
‘Equipped for equity’ campaign
- It calls upon governments to reduce or eliminate taxes on assistive technology, integrate assistive technology into primary health care and ensure its widespread access.
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- These Aids Could Be:
- Physical products such as wheelchairs, eyeglasses, hearing aids, prostheses, walking devices or continence pads
- Digital such as software and apps that support communication and time management
- Adaptations to the physical environment, For example, portable ramps or grab-rails.
- WHO is the Secretariat for the Global Cooperation on Assistive Technology (GATE) Initiative.
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Need of assistive technologies
- Globally, more than 2.5 billion people need one or more assistive products.
- With an ageing global population and a rise in noncommunicable diseases, an estimated 3.5 billion people will need assistive technology by 2050.
Benefits
- Equity: Assistive technology is gradually bridging the gap for para-athletes and regular able-bodied ones.
- For Example: Neuro-prosthetics interfaces with the human nervous system to overcome lack of muscular strength.
- Rehabilitation: Assistive technology is temporarily used by people recuperating from an accident or illness and rehabilitating them towards normal life.
- For example: hearing aids, wheelchairs, therapeutic footwear.
- Self Reliance: Timely provision of assistive technology for older people can improve their independence and safety as well as enable them to live at home for as long as possible.
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Limitations
- High Costs: High costs due to over-priced assistive products and associated service delivery cost.
- Limited access: Limited physical and geographical access puts assistive technology out of reach for many potential users.
- Sociodemographic barriers: Sociodemographic barriers hinder equitable universal access to assistive technology.
September 9, 2024
