"It Is Easy Using My Apps:" Understanding Technology Use and Needs of Adults with Down Syndrome Article Swipe
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· 2024
· Open Access
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· DOI: https://doi.org/10.1145/3613904.3642950
· OA: W4393213181
Assistive technologies for adults with Down syndrome (DS) need designs\ntailored to their specific technology requirements. While prior research has\nexplored technology design for individuals with intellectual disabilities,\nlittle is understood about the needs and expectations of adults with DS.\nAssistive technologies should leverage the abilities and interests of the\npopulation, while incorporating age- and context-considerate content. In this\nwork, we interviewed six adults with DS, seven parents of adults with DS, and\nthree experts in speech-language pathology, special education, and occupational\ntherapy to determine how technology could support adults with DS. In our\nthematic analysis, four main themes emerged, including (1) community vs. home\nsocial involvement; (2) misalignment of skill expectations between adults with\nDS and parents; (3) family limitations in technology support; and (4)\nconsiderations for technology development. Our findings extend prior literature\nby including the voices of adults with DS in how and when they use technology.\n
