Assistive technology in everyday living – A user survey of people with Parkinson's disease

Abstract

The aim of this study was to explore the individual circumstances of people with Parkinson's disease, as well as their ideas and opinions about assistive technology that may be used for daily living. A self-reported, user survey was designed. The results of the study were derived from a postal survey of randomly chosen members of the Parkinson's Association of Ireland. Analysis were conducted on data from 59 people. According to the survey results the majority of the participants reported problems with mobility (88%), fatigue (54%), and getting tired fast (70%). Problems with mobility included changing location (59%) and body position (51%–53%). Thirty four and twenty five percent of respondents described their physical strength and flexibility, respectively, as ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’. For 81% of participants it was important to be able to contact someone in a case of a fall. The results of this study indicate a possible underutilisation of assistive technologies and technology by people with Parkinson's disease. In addition, the study identifies areas in which there is a demand for assistive technologies.