This report is the 2022 Assistive Technology Report released by the WHO and UNICEF. CBM International also contibuted to this report.

Some major points highlighted by the WHO include: Almost one billion children and adults with disabilities and older persons in need of assistive technology are denied access.

Let’s not forget this figure includes more than 57 million people living with dementia, which is a major cause of disability globally.

The WHO has stated for over a decade, dementia is a major cause of disabilty and dependence globally.

It is imperative for us all do so, so that we leave no one behind, including people with dementia.

Recommendations include:

1. Improve access within education, health and social care systems
2. Ensure availability, safety, effectiveness and affordability of assistive products
3. Enlarge, diversify and improve workforce capacity
4. Actively involve users of assistive technology and their families
5. Increase public awareness and combat stigma
6. Invest in data and evidence-based policy
7. Invest in research, innovation, and an enabling ecosystem
8. Develop and invest in enabling environments
9. Include assistive technology in humanitarian responses
10. Provide technical and economic assistance through international cooperation to support national efforts.

Download the full report here…