Gerontechnology in Healthcare Settings: Myth or Reality
G. Lesnoff-Caravaglia
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AbstractThe introduction of advanced technologies into a world increasingly populated by persons aged 65 and older has contributed to the development of new resources for use in diverse areas such as long-term care, acute care settings, home environments, the work place, and recreational facilities. Despite the proliferation of both high technology (robotics, automation) and low technology (personal aids, prosthetic environments), their utilization in healthcare facilities appears to be limited. Methods A survey of 134 healthcare institutions in the mid-western portion of the United States (43 long-term care facilities and 91 hospitals) was conducted to determine which, if any, of a selected group of healthcare technologies was utilized or known to the institutions. Results indicated that assistive devices are not widely used in either hospital or long-term care facilities. Among hospitals, 36% had heard of the selected devices, 59% were using them, with 5% never having heard of them. Among long-term care facilities, 41% had heard of the selected devices, 53% were using them, and 4% had never heard of them. Discussion Such limited utilization and lack of information concerning healthcare technologies can seriously compromise the well-being of the elderly and can significantly erode lifestyle options and affect treatment procedures.Keywords: healthcare institutions; technology; utilization
G. Lesnoff-Caravaglia (2005). Gerontechnology in Healthcare Settings: Myth or Reality. Gerontechnology, 4(1), 46-51
https://doi.org/10.4017/gt.2005.04.01.006.00