Identification of assistive technologies in paralympic sports: contributions and barriers¹

Abstract

The Paralympic sport is the sport modalities that make up the Paralympic Games, applying adapted rules, specifics theories, and structures for people with disabilities. The objective of this research was to present the assistive technologies (AT) used by para-athletes, their satisfaction with AT devices and the services provided and, identify the main requirements for the good use of each AT and services, correlating barriers and facilitators for the practical of para-sports. The exploratory descriptive research consisted of 54 para-athletes with physical and sensory disabilities, who answered the Assistive Technology Device Predisposition Assessment (ATD PA-Br) and Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology QUEST B. Seven different AT were cited and analyzed singly: manual wheelchairs, prosthesis, bracing, arm strap, insole, ball, and racket adapted. Among the items considered fundamental for the good use of the device, the safety, the comfort, and effectiveness were cited in all AT devices. The most cited device was the wheelchair, 43% of the para-athletes were very satisfied with the device and 54% dissatisfied with the service provided to the AT. This study can identify some assistive technologies devices used in Paralympic sport and it is concluded that the items considered important to the use of AT, as well as user satisfaction and assistance provided, can either act as barriers or facilitators to the practice of parasport. It is noteworthy that there are still few studies that focus on assistive technologies and Paralympic sport.

Keywords:
Occupational Therapy; Self-Help Devices; Disabled Persons; Sports Medicine; Social Participation