Intellectual Disability and Assistive Technology

Book excerpt: The capacity of assistive technology (AT) to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities is well documented. Although promising, it is not without challenges. Historically, devices that provide mobility aids and physical supports dominate the world of AT; however, AT solution that specifically aims to address cognitive needs is scarce. The inequality of AT accessibility has left populations such as individuals with intellectual disability (ID) behind these potential benefits. This book presents six articles that highlight the need, impact, and possibilities of AT for people with ID. With the emphasis on the multidisciplinary perspectives, the objective of the book is to facilitate a better understanding of the needs of people with ID and the potential AT influences. Ultimately, we hope this book will shed some lights on this important topic and provoke more discussions and efforts devoted to improving the lives of individuals with ID through the use of AT.