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.