Barriers to AI-supported health management among older adults with chronic orthopedic conditions in China: implications for healthcare delivery and access.
BACKGROUND Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly applied in chronic disease management, yet its adoption among older adults with chronic orthopedic conditions remains limited and poorly understood in China. METHODS A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted with 13 older adults recruited from two tertiary hospitals in Beijing and Harbin. Thematic analysis was performed to identify key themes. RESULTS Five themes were identified: (1) preference for traditional health management over AI; (2) limited understanding of AI-supported health management; (3) perceived constraints in technological capability and affordability; (4) lack of external support from family and community; and (5) optimistic yet unrealistic expectations of AI capabilities. CONCLUSIONS Older adults with chronic orthopedic conditions face structural barriers to adopting AI-supported health management. Effective implementation requires age-friendly design and stronger integration within primary healthcare systems.