Innovative devices for physical rehabilitation in bedridden elderly patients: a scoping review on key characteristics

Introduction: The loss of muscle mass is a normal physiological alteration that results from the aging process. During acute conditions, where institutionalization is necessary, or due to specific chronic diseases, bed rest can be advised as a therapeutic measure. However, extended periods (>10 days) of bed rest lead to significant changes in the body composition, resulting in metabolic/functional decline. In some settings, due to the lack of clinical staff, the complexity of care and inherent workload or due to the lack of motivation of patients/ families, physical exercise is difficult to perform while bedridden. These realities can lead to negative health and well-being-related outcomes for the aged, such as sarcopenia and frailty. Therefore, innovative devices that aid bedridden patients to perform physical activities independently, following a plan previously delineated by health professionals, are an important way to prevent complications related to bed rest. Objectives: To map all the patented European physical rehabilitation devices for bedridden patients and highlight their key characteristics. Method: A scoping review was conducted. The search strategy included patents and prototypes registered in the European Patent Office between 2014 and 2018. Two independent reviewers analyzed the relevance of the findings and extracted and synthesized data. Results: Sixteen rehabilitation devices were included, five being only indicated for lower limb rehabilitation. Regarding their structure and assemble: 6 are modular and require previous assemble; 2 devices possess an air pump; 6 display a sliding feature allowing a wider range of motion; 3 possess a mechanism that allows them to exercise in vertical motion; 2 can mobilize the patients limbs through a powered system (motor); and 1 device has a video camera that allows to record/monitor the patient’s progress. The devices present variable height and weight, mainly adjusted to a standard hospital bed dimensions. Conclusions: A significant number of patented devices for the physical rehabilitation of elderly bedridden patients were found. The majority of these devices work upper and lower limbs through a rigid structure. Nonetheless, the use of technological advances (air pumps, sliders, motors, cameras) potentiates the development of innovative devices that foster a safer and more efficient rehabilitation intervention.