Abstract:

Our understanding of why older people choose to use or reject assistive devices is still rather formative. We know from research that it is a complex matter shaped by a variety of factors. These factors can be categorised as person-based (functional status, perceived need, personal evaluations of diasbility and devices); related to the natrure of the environment; and relating to the device itself (aesthetic quality, durability, ease of use and fit with the person and environment). Furthermore, the use of assistive devices occurs within a sociocultural context (e.g. not wishing to be seen as having a disability) which can have a powerful impact on whether devices are accepted into a person's daily public or private lives. The independent and joint influences of these factors for helping or hindering device use is little researched amongst older persons.