Home-based exercise interventions delivered by technology in older adults: A scoping review of technological tools usage

Background: Despite technology-based systems being considered promising tools to stimulate and increase physical function at home, most older adults are unfamiliar with technology, which may pose some difficulties. Technology-related parameters, such as adherence, acceptance, and acceptability, are crucial to achieving higher efficacy levels of home-based exercise interventions delivered by technology. In this scoping review, we aimed to revise the use of home-based technological tools to improve physical function in the older population, focusing on the user's experience and perspective. This scoping review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. The search was conducted in April 2022 and updated in April 2023. A total of 45 studies were included in the review.Results Most studies (95.5%) met the technology usage levels defined by the research team or reported satisfactory technology usage levels. Positive health-related outcomes were reported in 80% of studies. Although the existence of guidelines to correctly define and use measures associated with technology use, including adherence, acceptance and acceptability, some terms are still being used interchangeably. Some concerns related to the lack of an international consensus regarding technology usage measures and the exclusion of older adults who did not own or have previous experience with technology in a large percentage of the included studies may have limited the results obtained.Conclusions Altogether, home-based exercise interventions delivered through technology were associated with positive health-related outcomes in older adults, and technology usage levels are considered satisfactory. Older adults are willing and able to use technology autonomously if adequate support is provided.

Automated summary

This scoping review investigates the use of home-based technological tools to improve physical function in older adults. The majority of studies suggest high levels of technology usage and positive health outcomes. However, the lack of international consensus on technology usage measures and the exclusion of older adults without technology ownership or experience may limit the findings.