Artificial Intelligence and Disabilities: Innovation, Inclusion, and Human Oversight

On April 9, we attended the Perqo conference titled “Disability, Independence, and AI: How Far Can We Go Without Shifting Responsibility Away from Society?” The conference gave us the opportunity to learn more about the development of artificial intelligence in the disability sector. 

Artificial intelligence is now emerging as a major driver of social and technological transformation. In the field of disability, it opens up significant opportunities for independence, accessibility, and participation in social life. These advances, already evident in many applications, hold the promise of tangible improvements in the daily lives of those affected. 

However, this growth cannot be considered without a thorough examination of its ethical, human, and political implications. The enthusiasm generated by innovation must not overshadow the challenges it raises.

The question of the role of humans appears to be central. In the fields of healthcare, support services, and personal care, a consensus is emerging: artificial intelligence cannot replace human interaction. While it can optimize certain tasks, facilitate access to information, or provide decision support, it cannot replace active listening, empathy, or the quality of the connection between people. AI must therefore be viewed as a complementary tool, serving both professionals and users. 

Furthermore, the effectiveness of the solutions developed depends largely on how they are designed. Involving people with disabilities from the earliest stages of a project is essential to its success. This co-design process ensures that the proposed tools are better aligned with actual needs. Otherwise, there is a risk that the resulting solutions will be ill-suited—or even ineffective—for everyday use.

In the healthcare sector, artificial intelligence is already making significant contributions, particularly in the areas of diagnostic assistance and the early detection of certain diseases. Its ability to quickly analyze large amounts of data makes it a valuable tool for healthcare professionals. However, these advances do not undermine the central role of the clinician. Medical decisions remain a human responsibility, and the relationship between the healthcare provider and the patient remains a fundamental part of the care journey. 

The development of AI also highlights a growing need for training and awareness. Understanding how algorithms work, identifying biases, and developing a critical perspective are essential for informed use. This need for skill development applies to both professionals and the general public, with the aim of promoting responsible adoption of these technologies.

Ultimately, artificial intelligence offers a real opportunity to promote the inclusion of people with disabilities and support their independence. However, its implementation can only be fully beneficial if it is guided by sound ethical principles, collective deliberation, and constant vigilance. The challenge is not to pit humans against technology, but to build a sustainable balance in which innovation remains at the service of humanity. 

If you are interested in topics related to the use of AI in the field of visual impairment, the Louis Braille Campus and Handilab are hosting a roundtable discussion on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., on the theme “Seeing Differently: Digital Technologies Supporting the Independence of the Visually Impaired.” You’ll learn about practical applications and hear firsthand accounts through discussions led by people with visual impairments. 

Register for free online at: https://forms.gle/Vxv7KcV3Jxmrx2gT7. 

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