Smart speakers for health and well-being of older adults: A mixed-methods review

Department/Unit

Libraries

Document Type

Article

Source Title

Healthcare

Volume

13

First Page

2772

Publication Date

2025

Abstract

Background: Rapid population aging poses significant challenges to health and wellness systems, necessitating innovative technological interventions. Smart home technologies, particularly voice-activated intelligent assistants (smart speakers), represent a promising avenue for supporting aging populations. Objectives: This study critically examines the empirical literature on smart speakers’ influence on older adults’ health and well-being, mapping the characteristics of existing studies, assessing the current state of this domain, and providing a comprehensive overview. Methods: A mixed-methods systematic review

was conducted in accordance with published guidelines. Bibliometric data, article pur- poses and outcomes, keyword network analysis, and mixed-methods findings from articles

retrieved from five major databases were managed through the Covidence and VosViewer applications. Results: The majority of studies were conducted in the American region. Bibliometric analysis revealed five predominant thematic clusters: health management, psychological support, social connectedness, technology adoption, and usability. Findings

demonstrated multifaceted benefits across several domains. Older adults reported im- provements in daily living activities, enhanced emotional well-being, strengthened social

connections, and overall health benefits. Qualitative evidence particularly emphasized the advantages of medication adherence, routine maintenance, and facilitated social support. However, mixed-method synthesis revealed significant barriers to adoption and sustained use, including privacy concerns, technical difficulties, cost constraints, and limited digital literacy among older users. Conclusions: The integration of smart speakers into the homes of older adults offers considerable potential to enhance technological wellness and promote successful aging in place, underscoring the need for structured integration of smart speaker technology and human-centered designs within geriatric care systems.

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Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences | Technology and Innovation

Keywords

Home automation; Technology and older people

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