The Contribution of Wearable Devices and Artificial Intelligence to Promoting Healthy Aging

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Health Informatics
• Assistive Technology Research
• Digital Health and Aging

Background:

• Healthy aging emphasizes maximizing physical and mental well-being, independence, and quality of life.
• Technological innovations, including wearable devices and telemedicine, are crucial for supporting older adults.
• Assistive technologies address age-related challenges in mobility, hearing, and daily living.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent technological innovations promoting well-being in older adults.
• To examine the potential of wearable devices and telemedicine in enhancing geriatric health.
• To highlight the role of assistive technologies in managing age-specific challenges.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of relevant studies on technology for aging.
• Selection and analysis of research focusing on technological interventions for older adults.
• Evaluation of digital technologies, including brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) and wearable systems.

Main Results:

• Digital technologies, such as BCIs (e.g., electroencephalograms), show potential for improved patient-provider communication and event detection.
• Machine learning algorithms enhance signal processing for accurate decoding in BCIs.
• Smart wearable systems for health monitoring represent a dynamic and promising field in aging research.

Conclusions:

• Wearable devices like Fitbit® and ActiGraph™ demonstrate accuracy in monitoring physical activity for older adults, with reliable concurrence between devices.
• Limitations include small sample sizes, rapid technological advancements, and suitability for individuals with mobility impairments.
• Wearable technologies offer significant promise for geriatric care, but addressing limitations is key for effective and ethical integration.