Assistive Exoskeleton Technologies for Age-Related Mobility Impairments

Abstract

The global demographic shift toward an aging population has intensified the demand for innovative solutions to support elderly individuals in maintaining mobility and independence. Among emerging technologies, exoskeletons—wearable robotic devices that augment human movement—show great promise in this area. This literature review synthesizes recent research on the use of exoskeletons to assist elderly individuals with mobility impairment. Studies indicate exoskeletons significantly enhance mobility, balance, and gait performance in older adults, particularly those affected by conditions such as stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and osteoarthritis. Technological advancements, including the integration of lightweight materials, improved actuator systems, and adaptive control algorithms, have contributed to the usability and effectiveness of these devices. Moreover, the incorporation of biomechanical modeling and Internet of Things (IoT) connectivity has enabled personalized and real-time feedback mechanisms, further enhancing user experience. Despite these advancements, challenges remain in terms of device affordability, accessibility, and long-term adherence. Usability studies emphasize the importance of intuitive interfaces, aesthetic design, and minimal physical strain to encourage adoption among elderly users. Clinical trials and case studies demonstrate positive outcomes, yet limitations such as small sample sizes, short intervention durations, and lack of standardized evaluation metrics hinder the generalizability of findings. This review also highlights the growing trend of open-source exoskeleton platforms, which foster collaborative development and customization. In conclusion, while exoskeletons hold substantial potential to improve the quality of life for elderly individuals, further research is needed to address existing limitations and ensure equitable access. Future directions include the development of cost-effective models, longitudinal studies to assess sustained benefits, and policy frameworks to support integration into healthcare systems.

Keywords: Mobility impairments, Quality of life, Exoskeleton, Usability

DOI: 10.54941/ahfe1006963