ORTHOTICS AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN REHABILITATION AND GERIATRICS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/1811-2471.2025.v.i3.15566Keywords:
geriatrics, orthotics, assistive technologies, rehabilitation, mobility, innovation, quality of lifeAbstract
SUMMARY. The article is devoted to the analysis of the role of orthosis and assistive technologies in the system of medical and social rehabilitation of people, primarily of elderly and senile age. In the context of global population aging and increasing life expectancy, the problem of maintaining functional independence of the elderly, preventing injuries, supporting self-care and social activity becomes particularly relevant.
The aim – to investigate the effectiveness of approaches to implementing technical support tools into the geriatric care system, as well as to outline the prospects for using innovative solutions in the field of rehabilitation and care for the elderly.
Material and Methods. The work reviews and systematizes the main types of orthoses used in geriatric practice – from supporting and stabilizing to dynamic orthopedic structures capable of improving the biomechanics of movements and compensating for the loss of muscle strength. Types of assistive technologies were analyzed: mechanical mobility devices, tools for performing daily household activities, digital and electronic health monitoring tools, as well as modern developments using sensors, 3D printing, and intelligent support systems.
Results. The analysis revealed the advantages of using orthoses and assistive technologies in geriatric practice, inсluding: increased mobility, reduced risk of falls, optimized care, and reduced burden on medical staff and patient relatives. At the same time, a number of barriers have been identified that prevent the widespread implementation of orthoses and assistive technologies: economic difficulties, insufficient level of awareness, psychological unpreparedness of users, and lack of a multidisciplinary approach.
Conclusions. The need to develop an integrated model of technical rehabilitation based on an individual approach, interdisciplinary interaction, innovative potential, and social responsibility has been formed.
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