Development of an Innovative Smart Walking Aid with Electric Motor to Enhance Safety and Satisfaction Among Older Adults
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Abstract
Thailand’s rapidly aging population faces increasing mobility challenges, with falls representing a major cause of injury, dependence, and reduced quality of life. This study reports the development and pilot evaluation of a smart walking aid with an electric motor designed to improve walking safety and confidence among older adults. A quasi-experimental, mixed-methods design was employed, involving ten older adults with mobility limitations and their ten primary caregivers. Walking confidence was assessed before and after use of the device using a paired-samples t-test, and user experiences were explored through semistructured in-depth interviews. Quantitative findings revealed a statistically significant improvement in walking confidence, with mean scores increasing from 2.65 (SD = 0.50) to 4.18 (SD = 0.42), t(9) = 7.15, 𝑝 < 0.001, Cohen’s d = 2.25. Qualitative feedback reinforced these results, highlighting enhanced feelings of safety, reduced physical exertion, and decreased caregiver burden. Participants recommended practical refinements such as simplified height adjustment, wireless charging, larger control buttons, and safety features including voice alerts and floor-level illumination. These findings emphasize the importance of user-centered design in assistive technology and demonstrate the potential of smart walking aids to promote mobility, independence, and caregiver relief, aligning with Thailand’s public health strategy and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3 and 9).
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