# Analyzing wearable device in eldery care

> Wearable technology used to promote wellness and improved healthcare outcomes is rapidly advancing and gaining popularity among different age groups.

## The Aging Population and Health Challenges
The human population is aging rapidly. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that there were 1 billion persons over the age of 60 in 2019, with projections reaching 1.4 billion by 2030 and 2.1 billion by 2050. As people age, immune system functionality decreases, increasing vulnerability to diseases.

Factors such as environment, social status, and educational background influence aging. While physical and social environments can promote healthy longevity, physical activity often decreases with age, which is a global health concern. Older adults face unique challenges regarding mobility, cognitive function, and social isolation.

## The Role of Wearable Technology
Wearable devices—electronic devices worn on the body—incorporate sensors, connectivity, and data processing to address health challenges. They offer potential benefits such as:
* **Safety:** GPS tracking for individuals with dementia and fall detection alerts for emergency services.
* **Health Monitoring:** Tracking vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels), activity levels, sleep patterns, and medication schedules.
* **Independence:** Helping elderly individuals stay independent for longer.

Common market devices include the Apple Watch, Oura ring, Samsung Fit, and Fitbit. While these are popular, the study questions their specific appropriateness for the elderly population.

## Healthcare Workforce Shortages
The need for healthcare professionals is rising alongside the aging population. The WHO estimates a 10 million healthcare workforce shortage in low- and middle-income countries by 2030. In Finland, the shortage is estimated to be around 20,000 by 2030. Wearable technology can help bridge this gap by providing caregivers and family members with valuable health data to facilitate timely interventions.

## Challenges in Developing Countries
Adoption in developing countries faces significant obstacles compared to developed nations like Finland. In Nigeria, for example, challenges include:
* Cultural beliefs regarding family responsibility for elder care.
* Economic factors and cost.
* Lack of infrastructure, such as unreliable power supplies and internet connectivity.

## The 4P Medicine Model
The study applies the "4P medicine model" to wearable technology for the elderly:
* **Predictive:** Using data to identify health risks before they arise.
* **Preventive:** Empowering the elderly to take proactive steps through healthy behaviors.
* **Personalized:** Tailoring interventions to an individual's unique health profile.
* **Participatory:** Encouraging the elderly to take an active role in monitoring their own health goals.

## Research Findings and Considerations
* **Adoption:** Elderly individuals are generally willing to adopt wearables for health promotion, with limited concern regarding privacy.
* **Barriers:** Cognitive issues may hinder adoption for some.
* **Usability:** While some devices (e.g., personal emergency response systems, hearing aids) are designed for the elderly, many general-purpose trackers require careful consideration of usability, which was not fully addressed in this thesis.
* **Professional Care:** Wearables are a valuable addition to, not a replacement for, professional care. Collaboration with healthcare providers is essential for choosing appropriate devices.

## Future Directions
Future research should focus on the availability and usability of wearables in developing countries, addressing cultural, technical, and financial barriers. When designing for the elderly, developers must account for:
* Vision and hearing impairments.
* Limited mobility.
* The need for intuitive interfaces, larger buttons, and high-contrast displays.

## About the Authors
This article is based on the master’s thesis of Olorunleke Igunnuoda.

* **Olorunleke Igunnuoda**, Student of master’s degree Programme in Digital Health, Savonia UAS
* **Bryn Lane**, MBA, International Business, Finance, CFA, Charted Financial Analyst, Lecturer, Savonia UAS
* **Liisa Klemola**, PhD, Senior Lecturer, Master’s Degree Programme in Digital Health, Savonia UAS