Artificial Intelligence (AI) has made significant strides in the healthcare sector, notably in Assistive Technology (AT). AI is poised to bring about a paradigm shift in AT, enhancing assistive robots, autonomous wheelchairs, and guidance systems for visually impaired individuals. It also promises to improve speech recognition applications and the functionality of smart homes, promoting independence and enhancing the well-being of users.
AI’s transformative potential in AT is recognized by the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. However, the successful integration of AI into AT comes with its unique set of challenges. One major hurdle is the lack of diversity in AI training sets. AI systems learn from these training sets, and if they are not diverse, the technology may not adequately reflect the needs of diverse human experiences.
Furthermore, the transparency of the data labeling process and the lack of diversity in data collection can lead to biased AI tools. To ensure that AI caters to the needs of AT users, the training sets must include them. However, many of these technologies are still in the developmental phase and need to overcome significant barriers, such as speech recognition for individuals with dysarthria and stair detection for smart wheelchairs.
To promote the efficient use of AI in healthcare, the workforce needs to be trained in using digital products and AI tools. This upskilling of the workforce is part of a broader strategy to support the development and sustainability of these technologies. Simultaneously, regulatory bodies, standards, and policies need to be updated to keep pace with advancements in technology.
The proposed EU legislation on AI has raised concerns among the European Disability Forum as it does not adequately protect the rights of persons with disabilities, especially when AI is used to access public and private services. Therefore, AT users and healthcare providers must be involved in the development process of these technologies.
This involvement includes discussing the ethical use of these technologies and creating rules and policies to govern them. While AI has the potential to revolutionize AT, these challenges and considerations must be addressed to ensure that the technology serves its users effectively and ethically.
AI’s potential to transform assistive technology is vast. However, for it to be effective, diverse training sets and inclusive development processes are vital. Additionally, the ethical use of technology, the creation of appropriate rules and policies, and the training of the healthcare workforce are integral components of this transformation. Addressing these considerations will ensure that AI not only revolutionizes assistive technology but does so in a manner that is beneficial and ethical for all users.
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