In this episode of 3 Spoonies, we explore a question that’s becoming more urgent as technology advances:
When does inclusive technology stop being supportive — and start becoming intrusive?
Technology is often introduced with good intentions, especially when it’s framed as “accessible”, “assistive”, or “inclusive”. But intention doesn’t always equal impact. For disabled, chronically ill, and neurodivergent people, tech that’s meant to help can sometimes add pressure, remove autonomy, or cross personal boundaries.
This conversation looks beyond buzzwords to examine how technology actually feels in real life.
Inclusive Technology vs Intrusive Technology
At its best, inclusive technology:
- supports independence
- reduces effort and cognitive load
- adapts to the user
- respects consent and choice
Intrusive technology, on the other hand, often:
- monitors rather than supports
- assumes what people need
- adds noise, alerts, or pressure
- removes control in the name of efficiency
A key theme in this episode is that accessibility isn’t just about functionality — it’s about agency.
If a tool works but makes someone feel watched, rushed, or overridden, it’s worth asking who the technology is really serving.
When “Helpful” Tech Becomes Overwhelming
Many technologies are sold as productivity boosters, wellbeing tools, or accessibility solutions — particularly in workplaces.
But for people with limited energy, fluctuating capacity, or neurodivergent needs, these tools can:
- increase cognitive overload
- create constant interruptions
- blur boundaries between work and rest
- reinforce unrealistic expectations of availability
The episode unpacks how more tech doesn’t always mean better access — and how constant optimisation can quietly become a form of pressure.
Consent, Choice, and Autonomy Matter
A recurring point throughout the discussion is consent.
Inclusive technology should be:
- optional
- adjustable
- user-led
Problems arise when tools are:
- imposed rather than chosen
- difficult to turn off
- framed as mandatory “support”
- designed without lived experience input
True accessibility gives people options — not instructions.
Lived Experience Must Lead Design
One of the strongest messages in this episode is that disabled and neurodivergent people are not passive users of technology.
When technology is designed about people instead of with them, it often:
- misunderstands real needs
- prioritises metrics over wellbeing
- values compliance over comfort
Inclusive tech works best when lived experience is central — not an afterthought.
Privacy, Dignity, and Being Trusted
Intrusive technology often comes with surveillance — whether that’s monitoring activity, tracking time, or analysing behaviour.
The episode explores how this can:
- erode trust
- feel infantilising
- remove dignity
- create anxiety rather than support
Accessibility should never come at the cost of privacy or self-respect.
Technology Should Reduce Load — Not Add to It
A useful question raised in this conversation is:
Does this technology make life easier — or just more measurable?
If a tool:
- creates more decisions
- demands constant engagement
- or requires people to perform productivity
then it may not be inclusive, even if it’s labelled as accessible.
What Truly Inclusive Technology Looks Like
The episode closes by reframing what inclusive technology should aim for:
- flexibility instead of rigidity
- trust instead of surveillance
- support instead of control
- choice instead of assumption
Inclusive technology isn’t about doing more — it’s about doing less harm.
A Core Takeaway
If a piece of technology claims to be accessible but:
- removes autonomy
- increases stress
- or ignores consent
then it’s worth questioning whether it’s inclusive at all.
🎧 3 Spoonies is a podcast about navigating life and business with limited energy — covering disability, chronic illness, neurodivergence, access, and sustainability through honest, lived-experience-led conversations. Watch or listen to the full episode here.
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