system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) prevents muscle atrophy by causing muscles to contract. Why aren't we using this in hospitals and homes if immobility is such a problem for the older generation, disabled, or bedridden?
gpt
Cost-Benefit: you'd need a trained physiotherapist to properly attach the electrodes (pads) and to monitor the patient for any adverse reaction.  Some folks couldn't withstand even the minor effort at exercise.  You would have to continue the therapy indefinitely in the case of someone with a spinal injury in order to maintain any muscle gains; as soon as you stop, the muscles will atrophy again.  Actor Christopher Reeve did use EMS for some time after his injury to maintain his physique, but gave it up after awhile.  Again, cost/benefit.  


Atrophied muscles in the extremities don't seem to be related to major health issues.  Stephen Hawking lived into his 70s despite being immobile for much of his life.

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Bigger issues are bedsores and UTIs or infections from contact with bodily waste.  In most facilities, managing these take up much of a caregiver's time.  Reeve had recurring issues with bedsores, and his death was due in part to a reaction to the antibiotics being used to keep the infection in check.