Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan KLM(1),Ho YLE(2), NG WLW(2), Liang KS(2), Ng CKR(1), Chong SPJ(3), Leung TYC(4), Ng SWS(2)
Affiliation :
(1)Community Rehabilitation Service Support Centre, Queen Elizabeth Hospital (2)Disabled Unit, Shatin Cheshire Home(3) Occupational Therapy Department, Shatin Cheshire home, (4) Physiotherapy Department, Shatin Cheshire Home
Introduction :
The WHO states that “assistive technology” enables people to lead healthy, productive, independent and dignified lives and participate in civil life. It reduces the need for support services and the work of care givers. For those with higher levels of disability, advanced assistive technology equipment can help them use the residual control to improve their daily performance.
Objectives :
This preliminary study aims to explore the effectiveness of collaboration project between the two parties (SCH and CRSSC) and whether it can enhance the independence of the long stay client suffering from severe impairment.
Methodology :
The Shatin Cheshire home team screened the cases and identified their functional need and goals. The client’s consent was granted before referral and then CRSSC and Cheshire home’s therapist jointly assessed the clients. Thereafter, the AAT trial would implement and monitored by the ward staff. Adjustment of the device or control mechanism would be made after collect feedback from user and SCH staff. Goal Attainment Scale (GAS), The Chinese version of Quebec User Evaluation with Assistive Technology (C-QUEST) and Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scales (PIADS) were conducted after the trial period.
Result & Outcome :
4 cases (3 male, 1 female, age range: 38-64 years old) were recruited for this pilot project. All of them suffered from severe disability and dependent in all activities of daily living. A total of 7 tasks had been identified (2 communication devices, 3 feeding devices, 1 standing assisted device and 1 home control device). They achieved the goal after the intervention and the GAS score improved from 38.4 to 63.8. The C-Quest score was 3.9/5 and The PIADS score was: competence - 1.4/3, adaptability- 1.19/3, self-esteem-1.45/3 respectively. 2 of the 4 people successfully applied for public funds to purchase items after the trial. Conclusion: All of the cases could achieve their goals after the collaboration project. They were satisfied with the assistive technology items during trial period. The assistive technology items prescribed could improve the clients’ independency in feeding, communication, standing and door opening. The project will continue and more cases will be recruited.
