Abandonment of assistive products: assessing abandonment levels and factors that impact on it

Abstract

The simultaneous use of mutiple assistive products, users perception on the importance of using them, and completing the rehabilitation treatment were found to impact on the short and long-term use of products. The study offers inputs to decision making and planning for assistive technology provision in developing countries with regard to expected demand and service delivery. Implications for Rehabilitation Data about the abandonment of assistive products in Sao Paulo, Brazil, could assist informing decision making on provision and servicing of these products in similar settings. The strong correlation found between abandonment levels and the simultaneous use of multiple devices should be taken into account by health professionals when prescribing assistive products and providing guidance to users. The need for follow up on the use of assistive products after discharge from rehabilitation treatment becomes strikingly clear, as data show that completing treatment is significantly relevant when evaluating abandonment levels. As assistive products users' perception about the importance of using these devices is shown to be significant in explaining abandonment, it is mandatory that health and rehabilitation professionals take it into account when providing guidance and training users.