Adoption intentions and barriers to emerging technologies among people with disabilities: a systematic review of attitudes, accessibility, and inclusion

Emerging technologies, ranging from robotics and artificial intelligence to assistive innovations, hold transformative potential for improving the quality of life among people with disabilities. Yet, despite decades of research, systematic evidence on their adoption intentions, attitudes, and accessibility barriers remains fragmented. This study conducts a systematic literature review of 46 studies published over the past two decades, synthesising key determinants influencing technology adoption. The findings reveal that perceived usefulness is the strongest predictor of adoption intentions, while significant barriers persist. These include usability challenges arising from limited accessibility caused by physical and cognitive constraints, high financial costs, inadequate training and support, and persistent digital inequalities. Psychosocial concerns, such as fear of safety risks, social stigma, and reduced human interaction, further shape negative attitudes towards adoption. The study highlights the need for inclusive and user-centered design approaches that prioritise accessibility, affordability, and trust. By integrating evidence across disciplines, this review provides a comprehensive framework to guide future research, policy development, and innovation strategies aimed at fostering equitable technology adoption among people with disabilities. People with disabilities evaluate emerging technologies based on their ability to improve independence, mobility, and daily participation, but adoption is often hindered by issues of usability, accessibility, and affordability.Human-centered and participatory design processes are essential to ensure that assistive technologies meet users’ real needs and reduce the high abandonment rates.Involving people with disabilities as co-creators in the design and development process leads to solutions that are more functional, comfortable, and acceptable for long-term use.Successful technology adoption requires a holistic approach that considers family, caregivers, healthcare providers, and policy frameworks to ensure sustainable integration into rehabilitation practices. People with disabilities evaluate emerging technologies based on their ability to improve independence, mobility, and daily participation, but adoption is often hindered by issues of usability, accessibility, and affordability. Human-centered and participatory design processes are essential to ensure that assistive technologies meet users’ real needs and reduce the high abandonment rates. Involving people with disabilities as co-creators in the design and development process leads to solutions that are more functional, comfortable, and acceptable for long-term use. Successful technology adoption requires a holistic approach that considers family, caregivers, healthcare providers, and policy frameworks to ensure sustainable integration into rehabilitation practices.