Assessing AI-enabled Mobility Aids for Persons with Visual Impairment

74 Ms Diana Pang Li Yen asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) whether SG Enable will assess emerging AI-enabled mobility aids, including robotic guide dogs and wearable AI navigation devices, for persons with visual impairment; (b) whether safe and effective devices may be supported through existing funding schemes; and (c) whether Singapore will facilitate trials of or access to suitable devices.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: SG Enable supports persons with disabilities in accessing assistive technologies that enable greater independence and mobility. The Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) provides means-tested subsidies for persons with disabilities to acquire, replace, upgrade or repair assistive technology devices across a range of purposes, including education, employment, therapy and independence in daily living.

As artificial intelligence-enabled devices continue to develop, SG Enable will consider these as part of its broader efforts to promote assistive technology adoption. This includes exploring opportunities, such as trials in partnership with community and industry partners, to better understand the suitability of these products in the local context. Devices assessed by a qualified healthcare professional assessor to be suitable for use by persons with disabilities can be supported under ATF.