Use of technology to sustain mobility in older people with cognitive impairment and dementia: a scoping review

Abstract

Purpose

This paper provides a review of studies that evaluated technology devices to sustain various forms of mobility in older people with cognitive impairment or dementia and mobility problems (e.g., inability to ambulate or difficulties to orient with consequent failures to reach relevant destinations).

Methods

A literature search was performed for English language articles indexed in PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science. This search was then supplemented with an ancestral and forward search. The search covered the period ranging between January 2010 and October 2020.

Results

Twenty-seven articles were included in the review. They were divided into four groups according to whether they aimed to promote (a) supported ambulation, (b) use of safe power wheelchair, (c) ambulation guided by orientation cues, and (d) ambulation with GPS-based assistance. The studies were coded in terms of the objective pursued, technology used, participants involved, strategies applied to assess the technology, and outcome reported.

Conclusion

A variety of technology devices are available to address the mobility problems of older people with cognitive impairment or dementia. The devices’ accessibility and usability differ widely. Data on their impact are still largely preliminary and new systematic research is needed.

IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION

• A variety of mobility problems may afflict older people with cognitive impairment or dementia and curtail their opportunities to freely move indoor or outdoor.

• Technology devices have been developed to (a) promote forms of supported ambulation, (b) facilitate safe use of power wheelchairs, (c) deliver orientation/navigation cues, and (d) ensure tracking and possible assistance.

• The technology devices differ in terms of accessibility and affordability, with some of them readily available and others at a developmental stage.

• Data on the effectiveness of the various technology devices in reducing the impact of the mobility problems are still largely preliminary and new systematic research is needed.

Keywords:

• Cognitive impairment
• dementia
• mobility
• technology
• GPS
• smartphone

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.