Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Research Protocols
Date Submitted: May 23, 2024
Date Accepted: Oct 31, 2024
Evaluating the impact of assistive technologies on individuals with disabilities in Benin: Protocol for a cross-sectional study
ABSTRACT
Background:
Evidence of the actual needs of assistive technology (AT) users regarding AT adequacy is scarce in developing countries, where a significant proportion of individuals with disabilities require at least one AT to enhance their functioning and autonomy.
Objective:
This research aims to assess the effects of ATs on current AT users in a developing country.
Methods:
A cross-sectional study will be conducted in Benin, a sub-Saharan African country, employing a non-probability sample of AT users. Participants will undergo evaluation using standardized tools to assess their psycho-affective status, satisfaction with ATs, perception of the functional effects of ATs, well-being, and quality of life. Additionally, a survey designed based on the World Health Organization's (WHO) rapid Assistive Technology Assessment (rATA) tool will be employed to gather socio-demographic and other data concerning the utilization of ATs.
Results:
The outcomes will be organized and discussed using the Consortium on Assistive Technology Outcomes Research (CATOR) taxonomy, focusing on aspects related to the effectiveness and social significance of ATs, as well as the subjective well-being of AT users.
Conclusions:
This research will provide an overview of the effects brought about by the utilization of ATs, as well as describe the profile of AT users in Benin. To our knowledge, this will be the first study to examine the impact of ATs in Benin. It will therefore make a significant contribution to the existing data on the use of ATs in sub-Saharan Africa. Clinical Trial: This study protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of university of Parakou in Benin (No: 257/2024/CLERB-UP/P/SP/R/SA).
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