The implication of these aims is that a ‘medical model’ is inadequate to describe
the needs for AT. Appropriate AT will be chosen with regard to differences of
environment, personality and culture. These requirements will change both with
age and with changing conditions and expectations of society. These moving goal
posts imply that the provision of AT must be timely and appropriate if it is to be
Communication
Interpersonal
Computer Access
Telecommunications
Multimedia
User Interfaces
Environmental Controls
(Seating and positioning)
Mobility
Manual Mobility Aids
Powered Mobility Aids
Private Transportation
Public Transportation
Motor Function
Seating and Positioning
Manipulation
Recreational/Sports Devices
Robotics
Environment Control/
Adaptation of Houses
ADL Devices
Motor function
Orientation
Orientation and
Navigation Systems
Telecommunications
(e.g. video telephones)
Robotics
Cognition
Time aids
Planning aids
WITH RESPECT TO OLD AGE – RESEARCH VOLUME 2 327
Appendix 4 — The Role of Assistive Technology in Alternative Models of Care for Older People
effective and its use regularly reviewed to reflect these changes. In medical terms,
successful AT requires adequate service provision that allows early intervention,
and thorough, holistic assessment as well as delivery of devices. Support services
must however be of paramount importance as a need or requirement is rarely
fulfilled by the provision of a single piece of equipment.