Abstract:

The increasing number of older individuals, especially those in the oldest-old age group, has resulted in a significant increase in the number of people with disabilities. Assistive technology offers the potential of increasing independence and quality of life for older individuals with disabilities, as well as reducing health-related costs. To increase our understanding of the value older individuals themselves place on their assistive devices, this study interviewed 1,016 home-based older individuals in western New York and northern Florida, specifically asking them what they considered their "most important" assistive device and why. Not considering the number of users, the top five most important devices were eyeglasses, canes, wheelchairs, walkers, and telephones. Controlling for the number of people using the device, the top five most important devices were oxygen tanks, dentures, 3-in-1 commodes, computers, and wheelchairs. This study suggests that older individuals with disabilities view certain assistive devices as important in maintaining independence.