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Technologies and Frailty: A Multidimensional Approach

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Gerontechnology. A Clinical Perspective

Part of the book series: Practical Issues in Geriatrics ((PIG))

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Abstract

Gerontechnology, the set of technologies and environmental solutions for the independent life and social participation of aged people, can allow the early identification of the most vulnerable elderly subjects, favour their self-support in daily activities, and personalize assistive and domotic solutions. Indeed, many digital technologies have been tested in identifying frail elderly people, monitoring their characteristics over time, detecting risks and negative events related to frailty, and even providing care and support. However, the studies conducted so far have focused more on the use of technologies that improve the diagnosis of frailty rather than on technology-based interventions that can prevent frailty or limit its consequences. For many elderly people, but especially for those who are frail, the problem of the usability of technologies and digital literacy must be better addressed, with respect for personal dignity and privacy. Overall, therefore, the use of technologies has great potential to improve the care and assistance of frail elderly, but further clinical studies are needed to better define which technologies and in which cases are most effective, as well as which digital solutions are cost-effective.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Primary Care, Local Health Agency, Savona, Italy

    Alberto Cella

  2. Department of Geriatric Care, Orthogeriatrics and Rehabilitation, Galliera Hospital, Genoa, Italy

    Marina Barbagelata & Alberto Pilotto

  3. Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine, “Aldo Moro” University of Bari, Bari, Italy

    Alberto Pilotto

Authors
  1. Alberto Cella
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  2. Marina Barbagelata
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  3. Alberto Pilotto
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Correspondence to Alberto Cella .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geriatric Care, Orthogeriatrics and Rehabilitation, Galliera Hospital, Genova, Italy

    Alberto Pilotto

  2. Neurology, Kiel University and University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany

    Walter Maetzler

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Cella, A., Barbagelata, M., Pilotto, A. (2023). Technologies and Frailty: A Multidimensional Approach. In: Pilotto, A., Maetzler, W. (eds) Gerontechnology. A Clinical Perspective. Practical Issues in Geriatrics. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-32246-4_5

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