Developing Technology and People with Disabilities

It is known that technological developments that reinforce the sense of trust of individuals with disabilities have significant positive effects on the brain and nervous system.  The regions of the brain responsible for managing emotions such as trust, fear, stress and relaxation can be shaped by the physical and psychological relief provided by technology. Emerging technologies can have positive effects on the brain and nervous system on both physical and psychological levels, helping people with disabilities to feel more confident. This strengthens their mental health and helps them overcome emotional challenges such as anxiety and depression. 

The amygdala is the main area in the brain that manages the feeling of trust. The amygdala processes emotional stimuli and detects danger. Being in a safe environment means less stimulation of the amygdala, which helps to lower stress levels in general. As technology can make the lives of people with disabilities safer, it can relieve pressure on the amygdala and reduce stress responses. Furthermore, the prefrontal cortex region of the brain is associated with trust and governs functions such as decision-making, social interactions and self-perception. Technologies such as AI-enabled communication tools and smart home systems allow people with disabilities to interact more independently and effectively. This will contribute to a more positive functioning of the prefrontal cortex of the brain because this area reinforces behaviors associated with self-confidence and a sense of independence. Since being independent can increase an individual's sense of self-confidence, it also triggers the release of dopamine in the brain.Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that governs motivation and reward perception and is also known as the “happiness hormone”. If people with disabilities gain more freedom and independence through smart devices, it will help to increase their dopamine levels in a positive way.

With increased social interaction, these areas of the brain will be more activated and this will have a positive impact on mental health. In the future, with the combination of technology and neuroscience, the lives of people with disabilities will become richer and healthier, both physically and emotionally.

*Sources: The Neuroscience of Human Relationships: Attachment and the Developing Social Brain
                     The Brain That Changes Itself (Norman Doidge)
                     Neuroscience and Social Science: The Missing Link (John T. Cacioppo) journal of Neuroscience, Psychology, and Economics.