Artificial intelligence technologies focused on the care and development of people with disabilities

Cristhian Paúl Cuenca Pita; Ricardo Ordoñez-Avila

doi:10.56124/encriptar.v9i17.005

Authors

Cristhian Paúl Cuenca Pita Facultad de Ciencias Informáticas, Universidad Técnica de Manabí
Ricardo Ordoñez-Avila Departamento de Ciencias Computacionales, Universidad Técnica de Manabí

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.56124/encriptar.v9i17.005

Keywords:

Artificial Intelligence, Disability, Inclusion, Comprehensive Development, Personalized Care

Abstract

Artificial intelligence (AI) has established itself as a technology with the potential to improve the autonomy, communication, and social inclusion of people with special abilities. However, some barriers may limit their access to education, health, and employment due to the lack of existing knowledge about AI applications in the field of disability. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) to identify the current state of artificial intelligence technologies focused on the care and development of individuals with special abilities, categorizing solutions, algorithms, and domains of application. The methodology followed the PRISMA checklist model, structured around planning, searching, selecting, and extracting information. The search was conducted in five high-impact academic databases (Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and ACM), applying rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the total of 314 initial records, 30 primary studies were selected for further analysis. The most frequent applications include intelligent virtual assistants, augmentative and alternative communication systems, automatic sign language translators, brain-computer interfaces, adaptive learning platforms, and innovative mobility devices. In terms of algorithms, the use of convolutional and recurrent neural networks, support vector machines, decision trees, unsupervised clustering, and reinforcement learning techniques stands out, with performance rates exceeding 90% in voice, gesture, or sign language recognition tasks. These technologies have contributed to educational, therapeutic, and communicative contexts, as well as emerging applications in assisted mobility and inclusive work environments. In conclusion, AI is a key tool for supporting inclusion, promoting accessibility, personalized learning, and rehabilitation. Its contribution is framed within ethical and user-centered aspects that promote equity and autonomy for people with disabilities, while laying a solid foundation for future public policies and inclusive technological developments.

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