Emerging Medical,Social,and Technological Challenges in Home Health Care for Older Adults

Abstract

Background:

The rapid growth of the geriatric population and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases have made home health care (HHC) an essential component of modern health systems. Despite its importance, fragmented services, underfunding, and inequitable access undermine quality and safety, leading to preventable complications and hospital use.

Objective:

This narrative review evaluates the evolving medical, social, and technological needs of older adults receiving home-based care, highlighting persistent gaps and potential strategies to strengthen care delivery.

Methods:

Literature was searched in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies published between January 2020 and June 2025, complemented by WHO policy reports. Peer-reviewed articles, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and policy documents in English were included. Data were synthesized thematically across 3 domains: medical, social, and technological/environmental needs.

Findings:

Medical challenges included multimorbidity, polypharmacy, poor medication adherence, inadequate wound and pain management, and delayed recognition of acute deterioration. Social aspects were dominated by loneliness, caregiver burden, financial inequities, and insufficient cultural sensitivity in care models. Technological and environmental barriers encompassed limited access to assistive devices, housing inaccessibility, transportation gaps, and low digital literacy. Although telehealth and assistive innovations provide opportunities, their adoption is inconsistent and inequitable.

Conclusions:

Improving geriatric and home health care requires multidisciplinary collaboration, caregiver training, supportive policy frameworks, and equity-focused integration of digital and assistive technologies. Strengthening these strategies can enhance patient safety, reduce preventable hospitalizations, and promote independence and quality of life for older adults.