Aging & Gerontology

Abstract

This paper is intended as a review of past research and studies conducted in the Republic of Croatia on the concept of "smart aging." The research will examine the readiness for the use of modern technologies among the elderly in nursing homes and eldercare facilities. It will outline the ways in which smart aging is embraced through the application of modern technology, all aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults. The study explores enhancing quality of life in old age through cognitive stimulation, physical activity, and balanced nutrition. In addition, the mentioned improvement of the quality of life will be tried to be strengthened through a theoretical presentation of ethical and bioethical aspects, which can later be included in new research and tried to be confirmed in practice.

The research involved 760 participants from three counties in the Republic of Croatia and was conducted from January 1, 2023, to April 1, 2024.

The results indicate that the use of modern technologies can improve cognitive and physical performance in the elderly, although not necessarily in all cases. In the healthcare system, the focus is placed on reducing costs through preventive health measures. The concept of smart aging is also recognized by the European Union, which, through various documents, seeks to improve the quality of life in old age with the use of technological solutions. Findings in the field of technology use among the elderly population, and the positive impact of technology on their well-being and quality of life, are innovating the approach to working with this population. This opens up possibilities for introducing modern, appropriate, and effective activities and interventions. At the same time, it is necessary to address the identified shortcomings and challenges of the concept, ensuring that older adults understand the technology they use, receive support in maintaining various devices, and do not feel obsolete in the process, preventing the loss of existing capabilities.

Biography

I'm Slavica Janković. I was born and still live in Vukovar, Croatia. I studied physiotherapy at the University of Health Studies in Zagreb and Sarajevo and defended my doctoral dissertation on the topic "Assessment of the effectiveness of Tae Bo exercises on the quality of life of people with osteoporosis" in 2017. I am currently in a teaching and research position as a tenured professor of physiotherapy at the College of Health Studies "Lavolsav Ružička"  in Vukovar and the College of Physiotherapy in Ivanić-Grad.

I have published 43 professional and scientific papers in the field of rheumatologyand I co-authored 4 teaching manuals and monographs and one university textbook in the field of rheumatology. I actively participate in research conferences related to physiotherapyin Croatia and the broader region. 80 undergraduate and  24 graduate students completed their thesis requirements under my mentoriship.

I constructed a curriculum and championed a novel study program in Croatia that focuses on prothetics, orthotics and robotics in physiotherapy. The program is currently implemented at the College in Ivanić - Gradu and for that effort I received an award for promoting and advancing science. I am a big fan of sports activities, and I practice kickboxing recreationally and lead a specialized type of Tae Bo exercise program that is geared toward general population and aimed at treating and preventing osteoporosis. I am a proud mother of son Jakov.