Barriers and Facilitators to the Use of Wearable Robots as Assistive Devices: Qualitative Study With Older Adults and Physiotherapists.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Light wearable robots have the potential to assist older adults with mobility impairments in daily life by compensating for age-related decline in lower extremity strength. Physiotherapists may be the first point of contact for older adults with these devices.

Objective

The aims of this study were to explore views of older adults and physiotherapists on wearable robots as assistive devices for daily living and to identify the barriers and facilitators to their use.

Methods

Six older adults (aged 72-88 years) tested a wearable robot (Myosuit) and participated in semistructured interviews. A focus group with 6 physiotherapists who had a minimum of 5 years of professional experience and specialized in geriatrics was conducted. Data were analyzed using thematic

SUBMITTER: Reicherzer L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11327840 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature