Aesthetics and the perceived stigma of assistive technology for visual impairment

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence the perceived stigma of two assistive devices for visual impairment, namely the white cane and smart glasses.

Method

Face-to-face semi-structured interviews with eight European students were conducted to probe their experiences and knowledge related to disability, assistive technology, visual impairment, as well as handheld and wearable devices.

Results

Close relationships with disabled people seems to have a positive influence on participants perceptions about stigma, disability, and assistive technology. Academic background seems to not have any influence. The aesthetics of assistive devices was observed as an important factor that influences the adoption or abandonment of the device.

Conclusion

Device without negative symbolism but with modern aesthetics (smart glasses) were positively accepted by the participants than the device with traditional aesthetics and symbolisms of visual impairment (white cane). Designers should, therefore, consider aesthetics in addition to functionality in order to avoid the perceived stigma, thereby reducing the chances of device abandonment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• Understanding the factors that influence the perceived stigma associated with assistive technology can help designers and developers to reduce assistive technology abandonment and perceived stigma.

• Designers need to consider both functionality and aesthetics. While functionality is crucial for the users’ adaptation, aesthetics is important for the users’ positive perceptions.

Keywords:

• Stigma
• assistive technology
• visual impairment
• white cane
• smart glasses

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior - Brasil (CAPES) - Finance Code 001 and DIKU (Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education) - UTFORSK grant UTF-2016-long-term/10053.