INCLUSIVE AI TO SERVE THE DISABLED AND DISADVANTAGED POPULATIONS – PROGRESSES MADE AND CHALLENGES

We are living in a time defined by technological advancements. Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool with tremendous potential for social change and an opportunity to address longstanding disparities among underserved, disadvantaged, and disabled populations. Integrating AI technologies into society promises a more inclusive and equitable world by directly addressing the barriers to accessibility and support that have existed historically for those marginalized by traditional systems. This paper investigates the current landscape of AI in assistive technology and identifies the opportunities and challenges that need to be addressed before the underserved and/or disadvantaged can fully benefit from it.