New technological options for people with physical disabilities, through the use of telecommunications equipment

Website: e-bility.com

This research paper by Rob Garrett describes the results of a 2003 telecommunications clinical trial conducted by Regency Park Rehabilitation Engineering (RPRE), Research and Development department. RPRE "trialed and evaluated new configurable ‘off-the-shelf‘ telecommunication options such as car kits, voice recognition and hands-free technology (eg speakerphone), and network features such as voice mail that can improve the lifestyle, independence, security and social interaction of people with physical disabilities." Strong focus was placed on discovering the client‘s technological needs and tailoring devices to suit the client.



The trial was admittedly small, ten participants drawn from a select population of 1300, but according to the author, the results showed that the current mobile phone technology can be adapted for use by people with disabilites and that many participants were unaware of the full range of mobile telecommunications options that are available.