Advancing Disability Empowerment Through Assistive Technology: Across Cultures and Social Groups

This book addresses the critical issue of empowering disabled people and enhancing their wellbeing through inclusive, innovative, and value-sensitive assistive technology. Assistive technology is particularly relevant today for a large share of the world's population; approximately two billion individuals who need assistive technology have no sustainable access to it. Access to assistive technology can help prevent and overcome disability-related disadvantages, empowering individuals to engage socially and economically in activities of their choice, making it possible for them to enjoy a fulfilling life. Emphasis is placed on integrating digital solutions with traditional approaches to advance the development and delivery of assistive technology. In contrast, digital assistive technology is not a panacea; innovative assistive technology interventions wield the possibility of new solutions to existing or emerging challenges in the assistive technology space. They can be particularly powerful in low-resource settings, which are currently problematic in matching demand with effective solutions. This book is intended mainly for academic, professional, and educational purposes. The content herein reflects research-based insights, cultural perspectives, and lived experiences related to disability empowerment and assistive technologies. This book addresses the critical issue of empowering disabled people and enhancing their wellbeing through inclusive, innovative, and value-sensitive assistive technology. Assistive technology is particularly relevant today for a large share of the world's population; approximately two billion individuals who need assistive technology have no sustainable access to it. Access to assistive technology can help prevent and overcome disability-related disadvantages, empowering individuals to engage socially and economically in activities of their choice, making it possible for them to enjoy a fulfilling life.