Barriers, limitations, and merits of mobility-enhancing devices among older adults and individuals with mobility impairments

Due to variation in study design, intervention, and measures, findings were synthesised narratively.</p> <p>A total of 16 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in these studies. The devices included in the final analysis were walking aids, wheelchairs, wearable or sensor-based systems, and robotic or exoskeletal devices. In the methodological appraisal of the studies included in the final analysis, there was considerable variability in study quality, and most were rated multidimensionally, with low to very low risk of bias across several domains.

However, many studies still demonstrated consistent confounding and reporting bias.</p> <p>The diverse but methodologically heterogeneous evidence on mobility assistive devices in older adults and mobility-limited groups offers preliminary insights. However, standardised research is needed to build a robust evidence base for clinical practice.</p> <p></p><p>Mobility-enhancing assistive devices, including walking aids, wheelchairs, wearable technologies, and robotic systems, may improve mobility performance, functional independence, and participation among older adults and individuals with mobility limitations.</p><p>Rehabilitation professionals should consider device usability, user preferences, and environmental factors when prescribing mobility aids, as these factors strongly influence device acceptance and long-term use.</p><p>Wearable and sensor-based technologies can support objective mobility monitoring and may assist clinicians in tracking functional outcomes and identifying mobility-related risks.</p><p>Emerging technologies such as smart mobility aids, robotic devices, and exoskeletons show promise for enhancing mobility; however, further high-quality clinical research is needed before widespread implementation.</p><p>Standardised outcome measures and rigorous evaluation frameworks are required to strengthen evidence-based decision-making regarding mobility-enhancing technologies in rehabilitation practice.</p><p></p> <p>Mobility-enhancing assistive devices, including walking aids, wheelchairs, wearable technologies, and robotic systems, may improve mobility performance, functional independence, and participation among older adults and individuals with mobility limitations.</p> <p>Rehabilitation professionals should consider device usability, user preferences, and environmental factors when prescribing mobility aids, as these factors strongly influence device acceptance and long-term use.</p> <p>Wearable and sensor-based technologies can support objective mobility monitoring and may assist clinicians in tracking functional outcomes and identifying mobility-related risks.</p> <p>Emerging technologies such as smart mobility aids, robotic devices, and exoskeletons show promise for enhancing mobility; however, further high-quality clinical research is needed before widespread implementation.</p> <p>Standardised outcome measures and rigorous evaluation frameworks are required to strengthen evidence-based decision-making regarding mobility-enhancing technologies in rehabilitation practice.</p>