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Empowering Potential of the My Assistive Technology Guide: Exploring Experiences and User Perspectives

Author

Listed:
  • Elsa M. Orellano-Colon

    (Occupational Therapy Program, School of Health Professions, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, P.O. Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico)

  • Angelis Fernández-Torres

    (Occupational Therapy Program, School of Health Professions, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, P.O. Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico)

  • Nixmarie Figueroa-Alvira

    (Occupational Therapy Program, School of Health Professions, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, P.O. Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico)

  • Bernice Ortiz-Vélez

    (Occupational Therapy Program, School of Health Professions, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, P.O. Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico)

  • Nina L. Rivera-Rivera

    (Occupational Therapy Program, School of Health Professions, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, P.O. Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico)

  • Gabriela A. Torres-Ferrer

    (Occupational Therapy Program, School of Health Professions, University of Puerto Rico Medical Sciences Campus, P.O. Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico)

  • Rubén Martín-Payo

    (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Oviedo, Calle de Valentín Andrés Alvarez, 33006 Oviedo, Spain)

Abstract

The use of assistive technology (AT) devices enhances older adults’ function in daily activities. However, the lack of awareness of AT among potential AT users has been identified as a major barrier to its adoption. This study aimed to assess the quality of the Mi Guía de Asistencia Tecnológica (MGAT) web app, which provides information on AT, from the perspective of older Latinos with physical disabilities, and to explore their experience using the MGAT. We employed a convergent parallel mixed-method design involving 12 older Latinos living in Puerto Rico. In Phase I, the researchers trained the participants in the use of the MGAT. In Phase II, participants were encouraged to use it for 30 days. In Phase III, the participants completed the User Mobile Application Rating Scale (uMARS) and individual interviews, analyzed with descriptive statistics and a directed thematic content analysis. The quality of the MGAT was rated high in both the objective (uMARS mean = 3.99; SD = 0.68) and subjective (uMARS mean = 4.13; SD = 1.10) domains. Qualitative data revealed the MGAT was accessible, usable, desirable, credible, useful, and valuable to increasing older Latinos’ AT knowledge, function, and autonomy. The MGAT has the potential to increase AT awareness and adoption among older adults.

Suggested Citation

  • Elsa M. Orellano-Colon & Angelis Fernández-Torres & Nixmarie Figueroa-Alvira & Bernice Ortiz-Vélez & Nina L. Rivera-Rivera & Gabriela A. Torres-Ferrer & Rubén Martín-Payo, 2024. "Empowering Potential of the My Assistive Technology Guide: Exploring Experiences and User Perspectives," Disabilities, MDPI, vol. 4(2), pages 1-18, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jdisab:v:4:y:2024:i:2:p:20-320:d:1378950
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Seong Kyu Ha & Hey Sig Lee & Hae Yean Park, 2021. "Twelve Smartphone Applications for Health Management of Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(19), pages 1-13, September.
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