Global study reveals disparities in activity limitations and assistive device use among low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries.
A new study of over 175,000 people in 25 countries revealed that individuals in low- and middle-income countries face more challenges with daily activities and are less likely to use assistive devices compared to those in high-income countries.
Despite global improvements in health outcomes, individuals in low and middle-income countries still experience significantly worse health outcomes than those in high-income countries.
The study found that activity limitations are common worldwide, with difficulties in walking, bending, and seeing being the most frequent. These issues are particularly prevalent among older adults and women.
Participants in low and middle-income countries had higher rates of activity limitations compared to high-income countries, but were less likely to use simple assistive devices like canes, glasses, and hearing aids.
Movement limitations were linked to higher risks of health problems, emphasizing the importance of ensuring people with disabilities have access to assistive devices to maintain their health.
A recent study involving over 175,000 individuals across 25 countries highlighted the disparities in activity limitations and assistive device use between low- and middle-income countries compared to high-income countries. The findings revealed that individuals in lower-income countries face greater challenges with daily activities and are less likely to use assistive devices, raising concerns about the global burden of disability in these regions. The study, part of the ongoing Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiological study, found that activity limitations such as difficulties with walking and vision were more common in low- and middle-income countries, with significantly lower usage of assistive devices like canes and glasses compared to high-income countries.
The research emphasized the importance of access to assistive devices in improving quality of life for individuals with disabilities, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where usage is less than half that of high-income countries. Furthermore, the study linked movement limitations to higher risks of death and other health issues, underscoring the need for public health strategies to address these disparities. The researchers emphasized the importance of developing policies and programs to ensure individuals with disabilities have access to necessary resources to maintain their health, ultimately working towards longer, healthier, and happier lives for all individuals regardless of income level.
