Global Report on Assistive Technology - Summary

The "Global Report on Assistive Technology - Summary" is based on data collected from 330,000 people in 35 countries. It examines the needs, obstacles and preparedness of health and social systems for the use of assistive technologies (AT), integrating scientific evidence and global experience. The report highlights that over 2.5 billion people could benefit from AT, a figure set to rise to 3.5 billion by 2050, but highlights limited access due to economic barriers, insufficient skills and inadequate policies. Proposes ten recommendations to improve global access to AT, including expanding human resources, improving the quality of products and services, integrating AT into humanitarian responses, and adopting evidence-based policies. The aim is to promote the inclusion and well-being of people with disabilities, older people and vulnerable groups. The summary contains the main elements of the WHO document presented in 2022 which is mainly addressed to policy makers, assistive technology providers, funding agencies as well as manufacturers and innovators. It is also addressed to different stakeholders, including users and potential users of assistive technologies, their families and caregivers.