Engineering technology in rehabilitation of older adults

As most people age they adapt to and compensate for age-related changes and continue to function independently. However, a growing percentage of the older population requires assistance in completing functional activities in the home or community. How older people adapt and compensate and the types of assistance they need are the subjects of technology-based research. Engineering technology has been evaluated in research on falls, wandering, and spatial orientation. Both high- and low-technology strategies and interventions have been shown to be useful in clinical rehabilitation and residential settings. How technological interventions can be used by older adults to facilitate the performance of functional activities is discussed. Examples are presented to demonstrate how technology can be used to reduce wandering behaviors in both institutionalized and noninstitutionalized populations; reduce falls in older populations; and improve muscle strength, an important factor in maintaining good balance and avoiding falls. It is argued that interventions based on technology may, in the long rung, be more humane and cost-effective than institutional care. Areas for future research are suggested.