Experiences of using an exoskeleton by care professionals in elderly care: A descriptive qualitative study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Work-related musculoskeletal disorders are common among care professionals in elderly care. Exoskeletons showed effectiveness in preventing and reducing low back pain in other sectors. However, the potential of using an exoskeleton in elderly care is unclear. OBJECTIVE: To document the experiences of care professionals using an exoskeleton in elderly care. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative study with individual semi-structured interviews among professionals from two elderly care institutes, facing low back pain. RESULTS: Twenty-two care professionals used the exoskeleton mainly at peak loads during morning and evening care. Their experiences were described in four main themes: wearing and adjusting, movement and comfort, appearance, integration into work, and perceived effects. Those who experienced (predominantly) positive effects reported having less or even no back pain, partly due to the relief of the lower back, but also to a more conscious posture and attention to ergonomically sound movement. CONCLUSIONS: This study led to valuable insights into experiences of using an exoskeleton in elderly care, such as the potential of mitigating and preventing low back pain, and suggestions for further development of exoskeletons to improve their usability in the context of elderly care. The latter should be followed by studies into long-term effects.