Exploring conceptual and collaborative structures in disability and rehabilitation: assistive aechnology -a systematic review

Abstract

The present study provides a systematic thematic and bibliometric analysis of articles published in the journal "Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology" from 2006 to 2025. The PRISMA framework and Bibliometrix software were utilised to analyse 1,884 articles indexed in Web of Science, with the objective of elucidating research trends, conceptual structures, and collaboration networks in the domain of assistive technology (AT). The findings indicate a significant rise in scholarly interest, particularly post-2020, with themes focusing on physical rehabilitation, cognitive-emotional support, user-centred design, accessibility, and inclusion. The present study adopts an interdisciplinary theoretical framework integrating the International Classification of Functioning (ICF), the social model of disability, and technology acceptance theories. The results demonstrate a transition from device-oriented research to user experience and social impact, reflecting the evolving nature of assistive technology (AT) as both a clinical tool and a driver of social participation. The United States and Canada are at the vanguard of global AT research, characterised by a high level of international collaboration. The objective of this comprehensive analysis is to inform future research, policy-making, and inclusive innovation strategies by mapping current knowledge and identifying conceptual and geographic gaps in the AT literature.