Assistive Technology Market

Assistive technology market growth is a beacon of light for people with disabilities.
The assistive technology market growth is accelerating rapidly. The base was $14 Billion in 2015. Estimates range from $26 to $31 Billion by 2024 . The underlying drivers are fairly obvious. Baby boomers are a major factor. As baby boomers age, many will need canes, walkers, wheelchairs, and other mobility devices. Other baby boomers may maintain their health but need electronic assistive technology to supplement failing vision and hearing.
I will also optimistically assume that more companies will realize the business value of hiring people with disabilities. Assistive technology is a marvelous enabler of employment for people with disabilities. This is especially true for people who are blind or visually impaired. Technology levels the playing field for any computer or desk-based job. The same is true of younger people still pursuing diplomas and degrees. People with visual impairments used to be at a severe disadvantage. Standing near the blackboard might be their only option. Now they have reasonably equal access in many academic settings.
Rosy Picture for the Assistive Technology Market
That paints a very rosy picture for the assistive technology market. People of all ages will be demanding more assistive technology. When you ask people who have lost their sight what they want to do, there is a nearly universal answer. They want to be able to do what they’ve always done with their normal circle of friends. Assistive tech is the answer. Smartcanes and haptic wristbands will help people walk, hike, and run. Adaptive sports (https://theblindguide.com/thriving-blind-sports-thanksgiving/) leverage all sorts of clever electronic aids. Perhaps your love is music. How about a haptic baton for those who can’t see the conductor?
The Assistive Technology Market is growing rapidly and that makes it exciting times for people with disabilities, especially those who are blind or visually impaired. Leveling the playing field for all! I often post about emerging assistive technology. It’s exciting to see what the future holds but these newest technologies may still be a few years from becoming mainstream. I was therefore intrigued when Dave Roth, of the Western Governors University (WGU) reached out with a guide to over the 35 of the most popular accessibility apps on the market. Their selections include relatively simple text-to-speech translators (and vice versa). They also include more novel ideas such as Be My Eyes which allows those with visual impairments to start a video conversation with a sighted volunteer. My footnote is I suggested they add Aira which I view as an upscale version of Be My Eyes. Aira uses paid, certified agents rather than volunteers.
As Dave says, “These are fantastic times, where some of the most unique challenges that people face can be solved through the clever...