# Understanding Barriers and Design Opportunities to Improve Healthcare and QOL for Older Adults through Voice Assistants

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2111.03756 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2111.03756/

## Key facts

- Cited by 5 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 5 Nov 2021.

## Built on by (most cited first, 5 of 5)

- [Building Trust Through Voice: How Vocal Tone Impacts User Perception of Attractiveness of Voice Assistants](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2409.18941/) (2024)
- [Conversational Agents for Older Adults' Health: A Systematic Literature Review](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2503.23153/) (2025)
- [Requirements Engineering for Older Adult Digital Health Software: A Systematic Literature Review](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2411.03656/) (2024)
- [Voice-based AI Agents: Filling the Economic Gaps in Digital Health Delivery](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2507.16229/) (2025)
- ["MeBo Leaves a Piece of You Behind": Designing a Relational Voice-Based Memory Companion for Older Adults](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2609.24706/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Voice based Intelligent Virtual Assistants (IVAs) promise to improve healthcare management and Quality of Life (QOL) by introducing the paradigm of hands free and eye free interactions. However, there has been little understanding regarding the challenges for designing such systems for older adults, especially when it comes to healthcare related tasks. To tackle this, we consider the processes of care delivery and QOL enhancements for older adults as a collaborative task between patients and providers. By interviewing 16 older adults living independently or semi independently and 5 providers, we identified 12 barriers that older adults might encounter during daily routine and while managing health. We ultimately highlighted key design challenges and opportunities that might be introduced when integrating voice based IVAs into the life of older adults. Our work will benefit practitioners who study and attempt to create full fledged IVA powered smart devices to deliver better care and support an increased QOL for aging populations.