We are experiencing a long-overdue recognition of the challenges facing individuals with disabilities as they attempt to participate in society. Whether it is a physical limitation or something more abstract, there are many barriers in place that affect the well-being and involvement of people with disabilities.

Our goal with this AGE-WELL project is to raise awareness for yet another potential barrier: culture.

Assistive technology designers work to help individuals with disabilities lead a full and active life. In doing so, it is important to remember that every person is part of one or more culture. If a technology is not compatible with a person’s culture, it is at risk of non-adoption or abandonment. Therefore, technology designers need to learn about the various cultures their technology will be marketed to, and adjust their designs to be compatible. Our website helps guide designers in asking potential users about their cultural needs to ensure that a technology will be as useful as possible.

Let’s begin: