Accepted for/Published in: JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies
Date Submitted: Sep 12, 2023
Date Accepted: May 20, 2024
Barriers and facilitators to the use of wearable robots as assistive devices: A 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 aim of this study was to explore user needs and experiences, barriers, and facilitators to using wearable robots from the perspective of older adults and physiotherapists.
Methods:
Six older adults (age 72-88) tested a wearable robot (Myosuit) and participated in semi-structured interviews. A focus group with six physiotherapists with a minimum of 5 years professional experience and specialized in geriatrics was conducted.
Results:
Thematic analysis showed that older adults perceived benefits and had positive use experiences, yet many saw no need to use the technology for themselves. Main barriers and/or facilitators to its use were the perception of usefulness, attitude towards wearable robots, ease of use, and environmental factors such as the support received. Physiotherapists named costs, reimbursement schemes, and complexity of the technology as limiting factors.
Conclusions:
Light wearable robots such as the Myosuit were found to be acceptable to participants as an assistive device. Although characteristics of the technology are important, the use and acceptance by older adults heavily depend on perceived usefulness and need. Clinical Trial: n.a.
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