Natasha Azzopardi-Muscat, Director of Health at the WHO European Office, notes: "Technologies are not just healthcare tools. They can connect people and instill hope."
Such digital solutions are particularly important in rural areas, where access to medical professionals is significantly limited. These include medication reminders and artificial intelligence-based systems that help prevent falls and improve the quality of care.
The study was based on an analysis of nearly 100 scientific reviews and 3,000 publications; however, the authors emphasize that more data is needed for the effective implementation of new technologies.
"Digitalization helps older adults maintain independence, safety, and social connections. It reduces stress for both patients and their relatives, decreases the number of falls by 63%, and contributes to the improvement of behavioral symptoms," the study states.
David Novillo Ortiz, Digital Health Advisor at the WHO European Office, adds: "Even a slight improvement in mental health can slow down degradation and reduce dependence on external assistance."
Illustration on the main page: Unsplash/Steven HWG.
