Assistive Technology and Its Impact on Activities of Daily Living and Quality of Life: A Survey of Occupational Therapists in Saudi Arabia Working with Cerebral Palsy Patients

Authors

  • Alaa Alghamdi Occupational Therapy Department Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Science, King Abdulaziz University Saudi Arabia Author
  • Wesam Qurban Occupational Therapy Department, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Author
  • Mousa Alghamdi Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Author
  • Hatim Alghamdi Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Author
  • Majed Almabadi Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Author
  • Mohammed Alzahrani Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47363/JPMRS/2024(6)213

Keywords:

Cerebral Palsy, Assistive Technology, Occupational Therapy, Activities of Daily Living, Quality of Life, Barriers

Abstract

Background: Cerebral palsy (CP) is a prevalent motor disability, characterized by permanent disorders affecting movement and posture development, resulting in activity limitations. The prevalence of CP is higher in low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries.

Purpose or Objectives: The research aims to explore the impact of assistive technology (AT) on improving the quality of life for individuals with CP, focusing on their ability to perform Activities of Daily Living.

Methods: The study employs a descriptive design and surveys registered occupational therapists in Saudi Arabia. The survey includes questions about the types of AT used, their perceived impact on the patients’ daily lives and quality of life, and any challenges or barriers encountered in their use.

Results: The majority of therapists (92.7%) are engaged in the treatment of patients diagnosed with CP, with 71.1% utilizing AT in their treatment approach. The most commonly used types of AT are for self-care (85.2%), mobility (74.1%), and cognition (48.1%). The perceived impact of AT results in a medium to high level of improvement in the patient’s ability to manage daily activities and overall quality of life. However, common barriers encountered by therapists include a lack of availability (70.4%) and insufficient financial support (70.4%).

Conclusion: The study concludes that AT plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life for individuals with CP. However, there is a need to address the prevalent barriers to its use, such as availability and financial support.

Author Biographies

  • Alaa Alghamdi, Occupational Therapy Department Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Science, King Abdulaziz University Saudi Arabia

    Occupational Therapy Department Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Science, King Abdulaziz University Saudi Arabia

  • Wesam Qurban, Occupational Therapy Department, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    Occupational Therapy Department, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

  • Mousa Alghamdi, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

  • Hatim Alghamdi, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

  • Majed Almabadi, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

  • Mohammed Alzahrani, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

    Bachelor of Occupational Therapy Student, Faculty of Medical Rehabilitation Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

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Published

2024-12-16

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 12 (2025): Volume 6 Issue 12

Section

Articles