Getting the most out of wearable devices for seniors isn’t just a matter of having a cool new device; it’s also about taking advantage of the features they offer.
From tracking sleep patterns to detecting abnormal heart rhythms, these devices can help seniors improve their health and well-being.
Activity Trackers
Using a wearable activity tracker is a popular choice among the elderly.
Generally marketed as a daily step counter, these wearable devices can also measure a person’s fitness level. A study by researchers at Johns Hopkins suggests that such devices may be more useful than most people think.
Specifically, the device’s health-tracking capabilities may provide better clinical care for chronic diseases.
The study analyzed the use of a clip-on device that measures a person’s daily activities. Using the device, the researchers collected data on a person’s heart rate and six-minute walk distance.
They also measured the wearer’s NT-proBNP, a blood biomarker used to assess the risk of heart failure. The device was also able to record a user’s oxygen level.
Although these were only the most basic health metrics, the device’s health-tracking capabilities could tell the researchers about a person’s overall health.
The data was also used to measure various other metrics, including health-related quality of life. Ultimately, the device’s health-tracking capabilities were used in conjunction with a financial incentive.
Heart Rate Monitors
Using a heart rate monitor can enhance self-management.
It can also reduce readmissions. However, you may have to dig to find the best product for your needs.
A heart rate monitor is a good idea if you have a pacemaker. This equipment detects an impending battery failure and can save you from a costly trip to the emergency room.
Sleep Monitors
Unlike PSG, which is used for a single night, Actigraphy can be used for an extended period in a natural sleep environment.
It is less invasive and less expensive than PSG. In addition, it can provide additional data. It can measure activity in three planes, which can be helpful in the diagnosis and monitoring of sleep disorders. It may also provide more reliable data than PSG.
Compared to PSG, Actigraphy is less invasive and can provide more accurate sleep data. Actigraphy data typically includes information on Respiratory Rate, Heart Rate, and Circadian Rhythm.
The data can be used to assess the sleep architecture of individuals, which is important for identifying sleep disorders. Actigraphy also can provide information on the number of arousals during sleep.
These arousals can be useful in identifying individuals who are at risk for falling, and they may help tailor medication doses. It is important to note that Actigraphy is less reliable in older adults, possibly because of less activity.
Another advantage of wearable devices is that they can be customized to individual preferences. This allows for prompt feedback, which can warn individuals about lack of sleep, stress, and falls.
This information can help individuals tailor medication doses and trigger interventions. Wearable devices are also small and easy to use. These advantages make them suitable for use in elderly populations.
As the population of elders in the United States continues to grow, novel wearable technology will be required to diagnose and treat frail and chronically ill individuals.
Detecting Abnormal Heart Rhythms
Detecting abnormal heart rhythms with wearable devices for seniors is not new.
Wearable devices are designed to detect heart rhythms and alert the wearer. They are particularly useful in point-of-care settings, where patients could benefit from continuous monitoring.
The devices have been designed to help monitor clinical parameters, such as heart rate, oxygen levels in the blood, respiratory rate, and more.
Wearable devices can be worn on the wrist or fingertips. Some wearables monitor respiratory and heart rates, while others track thoracic impedance.
Wearable devices are designed to be comfortable and provide real-time monitoring. They also offer actionable alerts. They are used to detect atrial fibrillation and ventricular tachycardia. They are also designed to predict heart failure.
The most important feature of wearable devices for seniors is their noninvasive nature. Wearable devices can detect abnormal heart rhythms without causing any discomfort.
Wearable monitoring devices allow users to view data locally, enabling the analysis of physiological parameters with decision-support systems and cloud-centric machine-learning applications.
The wearable devices can also provide real-time reporting to caregivers and family members.
Wearable devices are also designed to detect irregular heart rhythms. An Apple watch, for example, is equipped with an irregular heart rhythm notification. However, it cannot detect all instances of atrial fibrillation.
An implantable cardioverter (ICD) is also used to detect abnormal heart rhythms. The device sends small electrical impulses to the heart muscle to correct irregular heart rhythms.
Sensor-Based Technology
Various wearable devices and sensors have been developed to detect signs of medical conditions before serious symptoms.
These devices are also designed to assist in the care of patients. These devices can be integrated with IoT technologies. They can also assess the duration of hospital stay and postoperative recovery.
Sensor-based technology was initially developed as a research lab prototype. The pharmaceutical industry later embraced it. Today, wearable devices are widely used and integrated with IoT technology.
Several sensors have been developed to detect biomarkers such as blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. Various companies have also been working on light-based sensors.
Final Word
Wearable devices can be a lifesaver, providing peace of mind to seniors and their families. These devices can monitor a senior’s activity, health, and location and even communicate with family members.
Wearable devices for seniors come in many forms, such as fitness trackers, smart watches, medical alert systems, GPS tracking devices, and voice-activated assistants. Each has its unique features, benefits, and considerations.
