The social model of disability recognises that people may have difficulty in
defining themselves as disabled or in need of special equipment, so they may not
look for an aid or take up a service offered with the best of intentions. The aim of
assistive technology design is therefore to create a device that is attractive to own
and adds ability without removing status. Such a device will often be happily paid
for in preference to an equivalent, statutorily provided device that meets medical
need but attracts social stigma.
Assistive Technology can be costly and many of the items mentioned below are
available through statutory services. Prospective users however should be aware
that the range of devices available through these sources could vary greatly from
one local service to another. Eligibility criteria can also vary as can the contribution
requirement from the user.
The issue of design and acceptance or rejection of AT will be addressed in the
section ‘Assistive Technology Issues’.