Accessible But Not Affordable

The assistive technology industry is often about individualization and specialization; each physical and cognitive disability is different, and so, such personalization is completely necessary. It ensures that the client receives exactly what they need, fitted to their preferences. Since the market is so small for each device, the prices skyrocket. Often, we find groups spending an immense amount of time solving one problem for one client. The time spent on designing and developing the device alone is very costly, and this doesn’t even account for the materials and technologies needed. Even devices that can be more widely used are quite expensive. This often puts it out of reach financially for those who might need it. For example, Liftware created a stabilizing handle with different attachments (spoons or forks) to help individuals with shaky hands eat more easily. The starter kit costs around $300, which is perhaps not a high price to pay for an easier eating experience, but for many people $300 isn’t something they have to spare.

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Is there a way to change this? How do we make these much needed technologies more accessible and more affordable? Too often profit is prioritized over the needs of individuals. Many of these devices and products do exist, but people simply can’t afford them.

There is a lot of work to be doneĀ about this.

 

One Response to “Accessible But Not Affordable”

  1. Jeff Dusek says:

    You bring up a valid point, but also remember that many of these devices are paid for by insurance, so prices are inflated. My question to you is, what would you propose as a way to bring down prices while still accounting for the huge variance in needs? Is it a case of lower cost materials, increased use of rapid prototyping machines, something else?

    Good post, but in the future it would be great to have a bit more content, and maybe some embedded videos, link to external sources, etc.

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