| The aging population, increasing healthcare costs, and a growing shortage of caregivers are driving significant changes in healthcare systems worldwide. In this context, understanding the use of digital tools is crucial not only for medical and social scientists but also for policymakers, financiers, and students seeking to enhance efficiency and reduce healthcare expenses through technology. Many countries are striving to strengthen digitization efforts for both clients and caregivers. This review article explores the challenges faced by caregivers and care homes due to the lack of digital competencies among care workers, which has contributed to the slow pace of digital transformation in the care sector. Drawing from a selection of studies published over the last decade and sourced from leading academic databases, the review highlights global efforts and interest in successfully implementing digital solutions and developing digital competencies across different countries. The findings indicate that technology can deliver significant benefits, such as improved access to services and increased physical activity among clients. However, the review also identifies several challenges, including technical limitations, inadequate training, and the limited involvement of caregivers in the adoption process. Key recommendations include prioritizing the perspectives of care workers in the digital integration process, supporting the implementation of emerging technologies—such as telehealth and artificial intelligence and addressing previous gaps that hindered caregivers’ ability to adopt and effectively use digital tools. Emphasizing digital competence as a foundational element will be essential to achieving meaningful and sustainable improvements in care delivery. |
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