Chinese Journal of Rehabilitation Theory and Practice ›› 2026, Vol. 32 ›› Issue (4): 473-481.doi: 10.3969/j.issn.1006-9771.2026.04.011

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Heterogeneity of sub-dimensions of satisfaction with the quality of assistive devices from the perspective of self-care ability stratification

JIANG Hua1, PAN Zhuowen1(), YAN Mei2, DONG Liquan2   

  1. 1 School of Labor Economics, Capital University of Economics and Business, Beijing 100070, China
    2 China Assistive Devices and Technology Center for Persons with Disabilities, Beijing 100050, China
  • Received:2025-11-17 Revised:2026-01-27 Published:2026-04-25 Online:2026-05-06
  • Contact: PAN Zhuowen E-mail:panzhuowen@cueb.edu.cn
  • Supported by:
    National Social Science Fund of China(23BSH095)

Abstract:

Objective To explore the differences in attention to the sub-dimensions of satisfaction with the quality of assistive devices among people with different self-care abilities in China, identify the key driving factors, and provide a basis for the precision design and service provision of assistive devices.

Methods Based on the 2023 national survey data, involving 14 030 people with functional impairments, self-care ability was taken as the core independent variable, eight sub-dimensions of satisfaction as dependent variables, and variables such as gender, age, educational level and residential type were controlled. Univariate analysis was performed using Chi-square test with Bonferroni correction, and a binary Logistic regression model was constructed to identify influencing factors. Meanwhile, reliability and validity tests, endogeneity tests (instrumental variable method and propensity score matching) and heterogeneity tests were conducted.

Results Among the eight satisfaction sub-dimensions, six presented significant inter-group differences, with Bonferroni correction (threshold = 0.00625). Following binary Logistic regression and endogeneity correction, significant inter-group heterogeneity was confirmed in dimensions such as size and shape. For the affordability dimension, the main effect of self-care ability was not statistically significant, yet prominent urban-rural heterogeneity was observed. Specifically, taking the fully independent (self-care) group as the reference, the fully dependent group attached significantly greater importance to safety (B = 0.253, P < 0.001), comfort (B = 0.153, P = 0.001) and ease of use (B = 0.316, P < 0.001); the partially dependent group showed the highest level of attention to lightweight (B = 0.094, P = 0.027) and durability (B = 0.254, P < 0.001); and the fully independent group demonstrated a relatively stronger preference for aesthetics.

Conclusion Stratified functional demands, driven by self-care ability, exist in the satisfaction of individuals with functional impairments with assistive devices in China. The policy formulation and product design of assistive devices should shift to a precision-oriented paradigm: prioritize the guarantee of safety, comfort and ease of use for fully dependent groups, optimize lightweight performance and durability for partially dependent groups, enhance aesthetics and social acceptance for fully independent groups, roll out price subsidy policies for urban price-sensitive groups, and strengthen the supply of core functional services for rural groups. This approach will comprehensively improve the adaptation effectiveness of assistive devices and the well-being of users.

Key words: assistive devices, self-care ability, heterogeneity of satisfaction, demand stratification

CLC Number: