Better Understanding Wearable Activity Monitor Use and Non-Use Among Older Adults: A Qualitative Study

We used qualitative methods to better understand wearable activity monitor (WAM) use and its relationship with physical activity (PA) among older adults. Four focus groups, stratified by current/past ("ever") WAM users and "never" WAM users, were conducted with 57 participants aged ≥60 years. Data were coded with deductive and inductive approaches. Among ever WAM users, those with low pre-WAM PA levels reported higher PA related to WAM use while those with high pre-WAM PA levels reported they used WAM for tracking and monitoring their activity. Ever WAM users were motivated to increase PA through rewards and social support. Many never WAM users reported that WAM was unnecessary. WAM may be helpful for some older adults to increase their PA, particularly those who are motivated by setting and achieving PA goals. The results could help develop strategies to overcome barriers to WAM adoption and promote WAM use among older adults.