UK-led review · Online 2020, journal issue 2022 · Qualitative meta-synthesis
Why Assistive Equipment Goes Unused
Jonathan Howard and colleagues at Swansea University and Swansea Bay University Health Board examined barriers across chronic conditions.
What Did The Researchers Do?
Forty qualitative papers met the review criteria. The authors grouped findings into six connected themes: design and function, service provision, information and awareness, psychological barriers, support networks and societal barriers.
What Did They Find?
The review supports personalised provision, accessible information and stronger user involvement. Its rehabilitation implications argue for creative problem-solving instead of relying on pre-defined prescription lists.
Why Does It Matter?
It provides a framework for exploring why a device is not being used, including the person, their environment and the support around the product. A device delivery alone is not a complete outcome.
What Are The Limits?
This review covers varied assistive technologies and health conditions. It does not calculate a UK mobility-aid abandonment rate, quantify waste caused by catalogues or evaluate LifeGlider.
Exploring the barriers to using assistive technology for individuals with chronic conditions: a meta-synthesis review. Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, 2022;17(4):390 to 408. DOI: 10.1080/17483107.2020.1788181.
Read the original abstract ↗Mobility UK's original explanation of independent research. No endorsement is implied. Reviewed 5 November 2026.
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Suitability depends on the individual. These studies did not test LifeGlider.
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