Exploring the Role of Assistive Technologies in Healthcare for Minors with Cognitive Disabilities

Abstract

Assistive technologies (ATs) are devices that enable individuals with physical or cognitive impairments to have greater control over their mobility, communication, and independence. However, in healthcare settings, children with cognitive disabilities face significant barriers to accessing or using ATs due to provider unfamiliarity, limited knowledge, time constraints, or a lack of clear training in such technologies. This cross-sectional survey of parents examines parental perceptions of assistive technology use and related healthcare experiences among 24 parents of children enrolled in Moderate to Severe Disability (MSD) programs in Bardstown, Kentucky. Of survey respondents, 15 children use at least one form of assistive technology (62.5%), with speech-generating devices being the most common (45.8%), followed by wheelchairs (28.1%). Parents frequently reported that their children experienced greater independence as a result of ATs, especially at home. Only one-third (33.3%) of children using ATs in this study had them prescribed by a physician, while most families found them at the recommendation of speech specialists, family, or friends. However, when ATs are prescribed by a physician, parents reported feeling a greater sense of comfort with their child using them across spaces, including in healthcare settings. Findings from this study suggest that greater physician awareness of, and training surrounding ATs may be associated with parental confidence and more consistent AT use, demonstrating the potential value of improved provider training and interdisciplinary communication.