Technologies for ageing in place: A systematic review of reviews and meta-analyses

Abstract

Objectives - Assuming information technologies might help older adults in their residential environments (i.e. technologies for ageing in place), this study aims to identify: (i) the most relevant applications of technologies for ageing in place; (ii) the types of technologies for ageing in place; and (iii) the outcomes of technologies for ageing in place. Methods - A systematic review of reviews and meta-analyses was performed based on a search of the literature. Results - A total of 73 systematic reviews and meta-analyses were retrieved. These studies were classified in the following classes: (i) healthy lifestyles; (ii) loneliness and social isolation; (iii) home safety; and (iv) remote care of chronic conditions. Conclusion - The findings show the potential of technologies for ageing in place, but there is the need of additional evidence from randomized controlled trials and longitudinal studies with large sample sizes and robust evaluation methods.