As customized integrated support welfare policies are being implemented in accordance with the national policy for people with disabilities (PWD), the demand for assistive devices (ADs) is increasing along with the transition to a super-aged society, ...
As customized integrated support welfare policies are being implemented in accordance with the national policy for people with disabilities (PWD), the demand for assistive devices (ADs) is increasing along with the transition to a super-aged society, and the public benefit budget is also increasing accordingly. Therefore, it is necessary to confirm the mediation effect of ADs on the functional performance and quality of life of PWD, and to secure evidence to increase the efficiency of the public benefit budget for ADs. As part of this, this study conducted a systematic literature review to analyze the effect of ADs on Self-reliance (in terms of ability to perform functions and quality of life) of people with physical disabilities (PWPD). A total of 171 articles were searched and 14 cases were analyzed by investigating domestic and foreign literature from 2001 to 2022. The results of the study confirmed that the use of ADs had a positive effect on the mobility and daily performance of PWPD. In particular, mobility ADs and ADs centered on upper limb function were effective. In addition, it was shown that satisfaction with the use of ADs was related to the improvement of quality of life, including psychological factors such as anxiety and depression. This study presents three major implications. First, AD intervention plays an important role in improving the functional performance and quality of life of PWPD, and customized support considering the individual’s needs and environment is necessary. However, research on psychological and social functional performance ability is insufficient, so research on this is necessary. Second, it is emphasized that the use of ADs can also contribute to maintaining the quality of life including psychological aspects, and is particularly meaningful in preventing functional decline of PWPD. Third, considering the high demand for mobility ADs, it is necessary to develop and support various mobility-related ADs. This study systematically examines the effects of AD intervention, and it is important to be used as basic data for establishing welfare policies for PWPD in the future. In the future, research on not only the physical effects of AD, but also the psychological and social function performance effects, quality of life, and economic and social impacts will be continuously needed.