Impact and effectiveness of assistive products on the functional performance of older adults living in long-term care facilities

Abstract

Introduction: Functional dependence is prevalent among older adults in Chile. Autonomy is essential for maintaining functional capacity in this population. Assistive products that specifically support activities of daily living are a useful strategy to promote autonomy. However, few studies have evaluated their effectiveness among dependent older adults in Chile. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of an intervention using low-cost assistive products to promote functional autonomy among older adults in Chile, specifically in feeding, dressing, and hygiene activities. Method: The participants were 20 older adults living in a long-term care residence for older adults in Chile. Basic daily living skills were measured using the Community Performance Assessment Instrument (IVADEC-CIF). Participants received assistive products and were trained to use them through simulation of functional therapeutic activities. Results: A significant reduction in difficulties with feeding [t (19) = 2.774, p = .012, d = .620] and hygiene [t (19) = 2.156, p = .044, d = .482] was observed after the intervention. Conclusion: The findings suggest that assistive products may be a useful intervention strategy to promote personal autonomy among older adults in Chile.