Factors associated with assistive technology discontinuance among individuals with disabilities

Numerous individuals with disabilities are dissatisfied with their assistive technology and discontinue its use (Phillips & Zhao, 1993). Abandonment rates of assistive technology range from eight percent to 75 percent (Tewey, Barnicle, & Perr, 1994). Factors associated with continuance/discontinuance of assistive technology among individuals who received assistive technology through Colorado agencies (funded under the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act) were investigated. The sample consisted of 115 individuals with disabilities who were provided with funding for 136 assistive technology devices. Independent variables (relative advantage, support, consumer involvement, trialability, changes in consumers, re-invention and compatibility) were examined to determine if they were associated with assistive technology device continuance/discontinuance. Analysis of the results suggests that relative advantage and consumer involvement have a significant influence in predicting discontinuance.