Table 8 Tools supporting mobility and related barriers
From: Challenges and opportunity in mobility among older adults – key determinant identification
Indoor | ||
Opportunity | Barriers | |
For medical specialist care | • medical check-up records and treatment and care records • remote medical care practice services • use of new technologies (AI, robots) which bring improved patient engagement • cost savings by reducing the need for manual labour and increasing efficiency • more effective with other healthcare providers • better access to data | • protection of personal data • time to learn and implement new technology into their workflows • doctors prefer to stick to traditional methods of patient care • the cost of purchasing and implementing new technology • different systems and devices may not be able to communicate with one another |
For individual use | • improved health outcomes by use: hip protectors, wheelchair/scooter safety features, intelligent walkers, fall alarms, environmental aids, robots, transfer assistance and toileting care • increased access to information • improved communication with healthcare providers • better tracking of personal health data • more convenient and accessible care • more active role in one’s own care | • fear or distrust of technology • a lack of experience with touchscreens and other user interfaces • health conditions, such as vision and hearing loss, may make it difficult • high cost of smart technology, medical devices |
Outdoor | ||
Opportunity | Barriers | |
For medical specialist care | • improved patient outcomes • remote monitoring • increased access to information • more informed decisions about treatment and care | • unsuitable environment and equipment of stops • low frequency of connections • difficulties in boarding and alighting |
For individual use | • improved health outcomes (by using wearable devices and other technology, patients can better track their health, including their physical activity, heart rate, and other vital signs) • increased access to information, and more convenient and accessible care • improved safety (by use of fall detectors, voice-activated assistants, medication reminders) | • cost of purchasing and implementing new technology • problem with conditions such as bad air or temperature, orientation in timetables, noise or unpleasant environment, physical barriers in connection with location of toilets, railings, lighting, etc • limited connectivity • battery life • some wearable devices and technology may not be durable enough to withstand outdoor conditions and may break or malfunction easily |