Wearable device use in older adults associated with physical activity guideline recommendations: Empirical research quantitative

Abstract

Aims and objectives: To (1) describe the socio-demographic and behavioural characteristics of older adults who use wearable devices for physical activity monitoring and (2) explore whether wearable device use increases the possibilities of meeting physical activity guideline recommendations among older adults and older adults with known cardiovascular disease or risk.

Background: Finding ways to increase physical activity and reduce cardiovascular disease risk among older adults is a public health priority. Wearable technology has great potential for promoting physical activity among older adults.

Design: A secondary analysis of the national data.

Methods: A nationally representative sample of older adults aged 65 years and older (mean age = 73.79 years, N = 1484) and a subsample of older adults with known cardiovascular disease or cardiovascular disease risk (mean = 74.32 years, N = 1098) was used in the analysis. All analyses were weighted to account for the complex survey design. This study was reported according to the STROBE checklist.

Results: The overall prevalence of wearable device use among older adults and older adults with cardiovascular disease risk was 16% and 14%, respectively. Older adults with higher household incomes, better self-rated health, and greater exercise enjoyment were more likely to use wearable devices. Compared with non-users, older adult users were more likely to meet the recommended levels of moderate (55% vs. 31%) and strengthening activity guidelines (46% vs. 25%), but not of the sedentary behaviour guideline (69% vs. 62%). Similar findings were also seen in older adults with known cardiovascular disease or risk.

Conclusion: The uptake of wearable devices in older adults, particularly those with known cardiovascular disease or risk is still low. The use of wearable devices is an important facilitator of physical activity. It is critical to provide individualised support for their engagement.

Relevance to clinical practice: Age-friendly design and individualised support are recommended to increase older adults' adoption of wearable devices to improve their physical health.

Patient or public contribution: No patient or public contribution was involved in this study since we used publicly available data.

Keywords: cardiovascular risk; nursing; older adults; physical activity; sedentary behaviour; wearable electronic devices.