Assessment of Using Assistive Devices for Activities of Daily Life Provided for Persons with Disabilities

The project was implemented in collaboration with the Quang Nam Department of Health and received funding from the USAID Office in Hanoi, Vietnam. The project's primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of assistive devices for activities of daily living (ADL) provided to PWDs. A total of 81 ADL devices were distributed to 50 PWDs residing in five communes in Thang Binh district, Quang Nam province. The devices included stainless steel beds, adult bath/toilet chairs, children toilet chairs, adult shower chairs, air mattresses, stainless steel bars, skateboards, anti-slip mats, sitting cushions, lumbar spine fixation belts, pressure sore care instruments, long bath brushes, long bent handle combs, foam mesh bags, adaptive spoons, and assistive devices for taking things. The assessment was conducted by rehabilitation and occupational therapy consultants from health facilities in Binh Dinh and Quang Nam provinces. The consultants evaluated the ADL devices based on five criteria: suitability for each PWD, current status of the devices, frequency of use, PWDs and caregivers' satisfaction with the usefulness of the devices, and improvement of PWDs' daily activities using ADL devices. The results of the assessment showed that most of the ADL devices were in good condition and were in use. Eighteen devices were in good condition and were regularly used by PWDs and their families, while 58 other devices were old or partially damaged but still usable. The specific condition of each type of instrument varied, with some devices being in good condition and normal use, while others were old over time, partially damaged but still usable, or no longer usable or lost. The assessment also found that PWDs and caregivers were satisfied with the usefulness of the ADL devices, with an average rating of 8 out of 10. The devices were found to have improved PWDs' daily activities, with 70% of PWDs showing significant improvement in their daily activities. The assessment recommended that the project continue to provide ADL devices to PWDs and provide training and support to caregivers on the use and maintenance of the devices. The project's findings and recommendations are expected to inform the development of policies and programs to improve the quality of life of PWDs in Quang Nam province. The project's success in providing ADL devices and improving PWDs' daily activities highlights the importance of assistive technology in enhancing the independence and autonomy of PWDs.