Understanding and exploring barriers of assistive technology for individuals with mobility disabilities

This study aims to understand and explore the barriers to assistive technology for individuals with mobility disabilities. A survey was carried out among 300 people from both rural and urban areas of northern India with mobility disabilities, selected using a purposive sampling technique. Phase I developed a valid tool to measure barriers, while Phase II applied the tool in a survey. Results showed affordability (0.42 ± 0.32), awareness (0.46 ± 0.48), and accessibility (0.57 ± 0.44) as the most common barriers. The findings may assist product designers and rehabilitation specialists in improving accessibility, affordability, and availability.