Assistive Technology Use Among Adolescents and Young Adults With Spina Bifida
By Johnson, Kurt L., PhD; Dudgeon, Brian, PhD; Kuehn, Carrie, MPH; Walker, William, MD; American Journal of Public Health, Vol. 97, No. 2, pp. 330-336Publication Date: February 2007
Study conducted to evaluate patterns of assistive technology (AT) usage among people with spina bifida. Study data were obtained from a database at Children’s Hospital and Regional Medical Center in Seattle, Washington. Data were used to summarize disease characteristics, AT usage, and community and self-care independence. A total of 57 percent of the participants used wheelchairs, while 35 percent used braces and 23 percent used walking aids. Independent self-care was a common skill, though 72 percent reported limited participation in structured activities. The authors contend that adolescents and young adults with spina bifida generally utilize AT and specialized care routines in order to maintain their health. Use of AT for mobility was found to be common, though little information was found regarding secondary complications associated with AT use or the use of AT to address learning disabilities and other societal barriers. The authors contend that the underutilization of AT could delay successful transitions to independent living and community participation for people with spina bifida.
Published by: American Public Health Association (Website:http://www.apha.org)
American Public Health Association (Web Site: http://www.apha.org )
