Getinge AB

Ongoing efforts focus on improving access to assistive technology globally, ensuring safety, affordability, and inclusivity. Initiatives involve workforce enhancement, public awareness, data-driven policies, research, humanitarian integration, and international collaboration.

As the population ages and noncommunicable diseases increase, an estimated 3.5 billion people will require assistive technology by 2050. While some may require it temporarily, such as for a short period after an accident, others need it permanently due to injuries or health issues. It is a necessity for certain older people, children and adults with disabilities, and people with long-term health conditions such as diabetes, stroke, and dementia.

Despite the demand, in many countries, a significant portion of those in need lack access to these aids. WHO and UNICEF's global report highlights that low-income countries report as few as 3 per cent access, while high-income countries show up to 90 per cent access. Depending on the country they live in, only 5–35 per cent of the 80 million people needing wheelchairs have access. Factors such as low awareness, high costs, limited physical access, inadequate product range, and sociodemographic obstacles obstruct people from accessing mobility aids.

The 2030 Agenda emphasises universal health coverage (UHC), which addresses the unmet need for assistive products crucial for achieving sustainable development goals. This includes the inclusion of people with disabilities, older populations, and those with chronic diseases in society for healthy and dignified lives.

Currently, assistive products include physical items like wheelchairs, glasses, prosthetic limbs, white canes, and hearing aids, as well as digital solutions including speech recognition and time management software. Such aids aim to maintain or enhance individuals' functioning in areas like cognition, communication, hearing, mobility, self-care, and vision, thereby promoting health, well-being, inclusion, and participation.

Benefits of Specific Mobility Aids

● The provision of suitable wheelchairs enhances mobility, consequently improving individuals' access to education and employment opportunities. It reduces healthcare costs by minimising secondary complications like pressure sores and contractures.

● The use of therapeutic footwear for individuals with diabetes plays a crucial role in reducing the incidence of foot ulcers. It prevents significant amputations, alleviating the associated impact on individuals and lessening the burden on healthcare systems.

● The timely provision of assistive technology for older individuals yields multiple benefits, including enhanced independence and safety, enabling them to continue living at home for an extended period and contributing to maintaining a higher quality of life in ageing populations.

Multiple ongoing efforts are being made to enhance access to such mobility aids for all in need:

Efforts to enhance accessibility to mobility aids across various development sectors are crucial. This includes ensuring the safety, effectiveness, and affordability of assistive products to meet diverse needs. To achieve this, it's imperative to bolster the skills and capabilities of the workforce catering to assistive technology users. Inclusivity is key, involving users and their families in the entire process of accessing assistive technology to tailor personalized solutions. Educating the public on the significance of assistive technology while actively countering any associated stigma is essential.

Data-driven policies are pivotal in making well-informed decisions and implementing effective strategies. Continuous investment in research and innovative solutions is necessary to constantly enhance assistive technology. Creating supportive environments for all involved in the assistive technology ecosystem is paramount. Furthermore, integrating assistive technology into humanitarian responses addresses urgent needs during crises. Strengthening international cooperation is vital to collectively tackle challenges and promote global accessibility to assistive technology.

Disparities in access, particularly in low-income countries, highlight the urgent necessity for inclusive solutions. The diverse array of ongoing initiatives signifies a concerted effort to enhance accessibility and empower individuals to lead dignified, independent lives through mobility aids.