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. ä IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONUnderstanding 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.

Consequences of Perceived Personal and Group Discrimination against People with Hearing and Visual Impairments

“…Self-stigma, on the other hand, was associated with feelings of loneliness in a sample of Chinese university students with visual impairments; this association was mediated by lower levels of self-acceptance [13]. Similar to what happens to people with hearing impairments, stigma appears to lead people with visual impairments to reject the use of canes and other assistive technologies [14,15].…”

Device abandonment in deafblindness: a scoping review of the intersection of functionality and usability through the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health lens

“… 7 However, mainstream devices (eg, tactile tablets and smartphones) have been described as great equalisers and facilitators of device acceptance 11 ; they are perceived as ‘normal’ when used in public, and are appreciated for their modern aesthetics. 12 …”

“…7 However, mainstream devices (eg, tactile tablets and smartphones) have been described as great equalisers and facilitators of device acceptance 11 ; they are perceived as 'normal' when used in public, and are appreciated for their modern aesthetics. 12 In hearing rehabilitation, device adoption is influenced by recognition of the need for the device, influence from family and friends or experience with other hearingassistive devices. 13 The stigma associated with hearing aids has been studied extensively [14][15][16][17][18][19] because, much like the white cane and blindness, this devices is the dominant symbol for hearing loss.…”

Users Perceptions of Headphones and Earbuds in Norway and Brazil: An Empirical Study Based on a Kahoot Quiz

“…This is especially an important factor for assistive technologies as users' perception of these devices are related to the degree in which these devices are used or abandoned [7,8]. Studies have shown that also visually impaired users are concerned with how the visual aesthetics of the devices they use are perceived by onlookers [9].…”