Using mobile applications in the process of enhancing and restoring abilities in individuals with intellectual disability and other disabilities – a literature review

Over the past few years technology especially mobile technologies have advanced significantly, while the cost of using mobile devices have decreased considerably. It is believed that this rapid technological evolution can provide an excellent opportunity to improve the independence of a handicapped person. However, it can also be a source of social exclusion. Certain obstacles such as inadequate built-in accessibility options can limit the use of smart devices amongst this vulnerable group of people. Therefore, functionality and practicality of mobile phones should be taken into consideration. The aim of this review was to determine whether mobile applications are used in the process of monitoring the physical activity, rehabilitation and education of a person with intellectual and/or other disabilities. To examine this issue we reviewed various literature extracts: we used the databases from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) focused on PubMed database. According to the method of finding and selected results, we qualified for further analysis of the results, which showed up when searched for key words and expressions (mobile applications, disability, rehabilitation, intellectual disability). We found 115 scientific articles. From this sample, we selected 23 articles related to our study. A significant proportion of the studies carried out seem to confirm that the use mobile applications attempt to support the rehabilitation process of a person with a disability.