The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Assistive Technology for Improved Quality of Life

Abstract

This study investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized assistive technology (AT) and contributed to the well, being of people with disabilities. The study presents a review of recent empirical evidence to support its claims on the significant improvements resulting from implantations of AI in AT devices, e.g., intelligent mobility aids, adaptive communication systems, and AI, driven educational tools. As such, the four main areas of functional independence, communication, cognitive support, and social inclusion have been enriched tremendously. The results show that AI, AT, leads individuals to have more control over their lives, makes their everyday activities easier and, in general, enhances their mental health and social lives. On the other hand, the authors report that there remain some issues of concern about long, term monitoring, design of the devices, ethics, and equal distribution, particularly in less wealthy areas. The paper ends with a statement that technology may have a powerful impact on the quality of life of people with disabilities but the realization of such potential hinges on factors such as inclusive design, sustainability, ethical deployment, and evidence, based implementation. The authors suggest that it would be beneficial to carry out longitudinal studies and participatory design, work on making AI, AT affordable, and consider AI, AT integration with other support systems.