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Assistive technology for older persons – analyses of data from WHO's rapid assistive technology assessment

Abstract

With a growing population of older persons globally, the need for mainstream assistive technology (AT) as well as assistive technology specifically intended for older persons is on the increase. The association between age and functional limitations strongly indicates a growing demand due the current demographic development. There was however until recently limited data that can describe the situation, monitor development and compare between countries and populations. Quality data is essential for developing regional, national and international responses to current and future need for AT globally. The Global Report on Assistive Technology (GReAT) was launched on 16th May 2022 and highlights both substantial gaps in provision of AT and AT related services globally and in particular in low- and middle-income countries. As part of the process leading up to the GReAT, World Health Organization and partners developed the "rapid Assistive Technology Assessment" (rATA) survey to enable data collection that for the first time can provide estimates of AT use and need in a global perspective. The purpose of this presentation is to present key indicators from rATA among older persons in the countries that participated in the global data collection.
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Category

Academic article

Language

English

Author(s)

Affiliation

  • SINTEF Digital / Health Research
  • Dalarna University College
  • University College Dublin - National University of Ireland, Dublin
  • World Health Organization

Year

2022

Published in

Gerontechnology

ISSN

1569-1101

View this publication at Norwegian Research Information Repository