Assessing the use of co-design to produce bespoke assistive technology solutions within a current healthcare service: a service evaluation

Abstract

Purpose

Co-design involves engaging with the end-user in the design process and may help reduce the barriers to assistive technology use. Previous research has used co-design in the provision of assistive technology, but no research has looked at applying it within a healthcare setting. This service evaluation examines the use of co-design in providing customized assistive devices within a current UK healthcare based Rehabilitation Engineering department.

Methods

This evaluation reports on three case studies. Individuals identified a range of challenges in daily living. The participants worked with the clinician in trialling prototypes and providing feedback to develop custom devices. A mixed-method approach of questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to evaluate the devices provided and the co-design approach. The resources required to provide the device were also calculated.

Results

Five different devices were developed, which were able to overcome the challenges identified. Results indicated participants were satisfied with both the devices and service provided. Participants expressed other benefits including increased independence, increased positive emotions and reduced mental load. Participants indicated they liked being involved in the design process and their feedback helped ensure the devices were customized to their needs.

Conclusions

The use of co-design was able to produce customized assistive device that met the needs of the individuals within a current healthcare service. Further work is required to assess the feasibility of utilising a co-design approach for the provision of other custom assistive technology in the future and explore if this can overcome the barriers to assistive technology use.

Implications for rehabilitation

• End-user involvement, the design process can help enable customized assistive devices to be provided that better meet the user’s needs.

• The custom assistive devices provided not only helped the individuals overcome the challenges identified but had wider reaching benefits for the individuals physical and mental health and wellbeing.

• End-users valued being able to input into the co-design process and working closely with the clinician in developing the device.

Keywords:

• Assistive technology
• custom assistive devices
• co-design
• participatory design
• user involvement

Acknowledgements

The authors thank all three participants for agreeing to take part in this service evaluation.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.