3.4. Analyse reasons for the increase in the use of assistive technology

This guide will help you answer 3.4. Analyse reasons for the increase in the use of assistive technology.

Assistive technology refers to devices, tools, and equipment that help people with disabilities, illnesses, or age-related conditions to perform everyday tasks. It can include items such as hearing aids, wheelchairs, speech-to-text software, and smart home devices. In health and social care, there has been a noticeable rise in the use of assistive technology. This guide analyses the possible reasons behind this trend.

Ageing Population

One of the main reasons for the increase in assistive technology is the UK’s growing ageing population. The number of people over 65 is rising, and many older adults experience conditions affecting their mobility, hearing, vision, or memory.

Statistics show that longer life expectancy means more people are living with chronic conditions like arthritis, Alzheimer’s disease, or vision impairments. Everyday tasks become more difficult to manage without support. Assistive technology helps these individuals stay independent for longer.

Key examples include:

• Mobility aids such as scooters and stairlifts, which help older adults move around their homes.
• Alarm systems like fall detectors, which contact carers in emergencies.
• Smart medication dispensers that remind individuals to take their pills.

This leads to reduced pressure on carers and support services. It allows older adults to stay in their own homes for as long as possible, which many prefer over residential care.

Increased Prevalence of Long-Term Conditions

Chronic conditions have become more common in the UK. Diabetes, heart disease, asthma, and various disabilities require ongoing management. Assistive technology makes it easier for individuals to monitor their health and improve their quality of life.

For example:

• Blood glucose monitors for people with diabetes provide real-time results, helping them adjust diet or medication promptly.
• Nebulisers assist people with asthma or COPD in controlling their breathing during flare-ups.
• Prosthetic limbs allow individuals with amputations to regain mobility.

Without these types of devices, people with long-term health issues may rely more heavily on healthcare services or carers. Assistive technology enables self-management, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits or complications.

Advances in Technology

Rapid innovations in technology have made assistive devices more effective, user-friendly, and affordable. As technology improves, more people have access to these tools. Smartphone apps and wearable devices like smartwatches provide simple solutions for monitoring personal health.

Examples include:

• Speech-to-text software for individuals with speech impairments, which supports communication without high costs.
• Smart home systems that connect to mobile phones, helping individuals control lights, doors, or heating using voice commands.
• Augmented reality (AR) glasses, which improve vision for individuals with partial blindness.

Manufacturers are now producing a wider range of products, so people with different conditions can find something suitable for their needs.

Improved Awareness of Disabilities and Inclusion

As awareness around disability rights and equality grows, there has been an increasing focus on making workplaces, schools, and public spaces accessible. Assistive technology helps meet these accessibility goals.

Employers, for instance, are legally required to make reasonable adjustments for disabled employees under the Equality Act 2010. Assistive tools like specialised keyboards, wheelchair ramps, or communication aids enable more people to participate in work and education.

Social attitudes have shifted. Individuals with disabilities are more empowered to request and use technology that supports their independence. This demand has prompted greater development of assistive devices.

Support from Policies and Organisations

Government policies supporting care needs and disability rights have encouraged the development and use of assistive technology. The NHS and local councils often provide funding for devices like hearing aids, wheelchairs, or home adaptations.

Key examples:

• The NHS Assistive Technology programme supports innovation to improve care quality.
• Personalised budgets allow individuals to choose tools suited to their health and lifestyle needs.
• Grants, like the Disabled Facilities Grant, help with home modifications such as installation of stairlifts or grab rails.

These financial support systems mean assistive devices are more accessible for individuals from various backgrounds.

Rising Demand for Independence

Many people who require additional support want to remain as independent as possible. This demand has prompted an increase in assistive technology designed to promote autonomy.

For example:

• People with physical disabilities use electric wheelchairs or robotic exoskeletons to improve mobility without constant help.
• Interactive apps teach life skills, enabling people with learning difficulties to cook, budget, or follow a schedule.
• Portable communication tools provide immediate access to interpreters or translation for those who are deaf or non-verbal.

By fostering independence, individuals enjoy a higher level of dignity and confidence. Family members and carers also gain peace of mind, knowing their loved ones can manage certain tasks alone.

Cost-Effectiveness of Long-Term Care

While healthcare systems face increasing financial pressures, assistive technology provides cost-effective solutions that reduce long-term care costs. Carers, residential care facilities, and hospital visits are expensive not only to individuals but to services such as the NHS and social care organisations.

Devices such as telehealth systems or digital care plans enable professionals to monitor patients remotely. This reduces hospital appointments and allows earlier intervention, lowering the need for costly emergency care. Economically, assistive technology benefits both individuals and health systems in the long run.

Impact of COVID-19

The pandemic accelerated the use of health technologies, including assistive tools. Social isolation measures and pressure on healthcare services highlighted the importance of remote support and independent living aids.

During this period:

• Virtual GP appointments or consultations became critical services.
• Telecare devices ensured individuals with chronic conditions could still access advice without physical visits.
• Many individuals sought out DIY solutions, such as fitness apps or mental health tools, to manage their own well-being.

This growth in demand cemented the role of assistive technology as part of modern healthcare solutions.

Social Media and Consumer Demand

The spread of information through platforms like social media has increased public knowledge about the availability of assistive tools. Personal stories, reviews, and demonstrations often go viral, inspiring others to explore how these devices could benefit them.

Improved awareness leads to greater consumer demand. As more individuals express interest in buying or using these solutions, businesses invest further in designing and producing assistive technologies.

Environmental Changes

Seasonal or environmental factors can contribute to reliance on assistive technology. For example, people living in colder climates may rely more heavily on powered wheelchairs or mobility scooters due to slippery roads or inclement weather.

Similarly, poor air quality in cities has increased the use of respiratory aids like air filtration systems or oxygen therapy devices. Environmental health concerns push individuals to adopt technologies that minimise the impact of these external factors.

Conclusion

The increase in the use of assistive technology stems from several social, economic, and demographic changes. Factors such as ageing populations, rising chronic illnesses, improved technology, and greater awareness all contribute. At its core, the use of these devices supports independence, quality of life, and accessibility for people with varying needs.