Long-term Effects of Wearable Health Technology and Future MHealth Usage for Older Adults

This study is to verify wearable health technology (WHT)’s long-term effects on older adults’ health and lifestyle management, and to propose the strategies for future usage of $\mathbf{m H e a l t h}$ to meet older adults’ needs. This is a two-year follow-up study for the previous 12week WHT trial. Twenty-four older adults in the previous trial agreed to participant in this semi-structured interview study. Three patterns of older adult users’ health awareness changes were identified: no change-consistent low (n = 2), no change-consistent high (n=7), and increased (n=15). Owe to the increased awareness because of the 12 -week WHT trial, long-term behavior changes were identified for their health and lifestyle improvements in the following two years. To achieve a healthier lifestyle, their attentions were paid not only on physical activity, but also on well-balanced diet and sleep rhythm. Therefore, the long-term effects of WHT were proved. To support the self-health and lifestyle management, 10 participants used various technologies along with own needs and convenience, such as mobile apps and home medical devices. Regarding the future mHealth usage, older adults emphasized the recognition of mHealth technologies’ benefits. In addition, connecting mHealth technology like mobile apps with home medical devices were also expected.