The use of person-transfer-lift in the field of elderly care in Japan ∼ a scoping review

ABSTRACT

Access and effective use of assistive technology should be considered in a regional context. In Japan, the population is ageing at an exceptional rate, and the workforce shortage in elderly care is a serious concern. Implementing robotic technology on person transfer lifts (PTL) is hoped to improve the safety and quality of care for both the caregiver and the care recipient. This review aims to summarize the recent literature on PTL usage within Japanese medical care and social welfare. Seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Our results demonstrated that most included articles were conducted in residential care in Japan. Various types of PTL were employed, with the sit-to-stand type being preferred. Overall, the use of PTL yields positive outcomes for both the caregiver and the care recipient. The provision of adequate training and a concern for dignity were identified as key factors in successful PTL acceptance and usage.

KEYWORDS:

• Person transfer lift
• person transfer assist system
• robot
• sit-to-stand aid
• safety
• dignity
• elderly care
• Japan

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Rina Sakao and Dwi Ayu Nur Komariyah for their kind assistance and contribution.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).