JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Wearables refer to devices worn by the individual that may assist with monitoring and diagnosis. Such technology has important healthcare implications, as recognised in the NHS Long Term Plan. Research has yet to be conducted into wearables and empowerment.

Objective:

To identify, summarise and synthesise knowledge about how wearable health technology can empower individuals to take greater responsibility for their health and care.

Methods:

Scoping review, with thematic analysis and narrative synthesis. Relevant guidance, such as the Arksey and O’Malley framework, was followed. Database searches were carried out, alongside searches for grey literature. Studies were included based on the following selection criteria: publication in English; publication in Europe or the USA; a focus on wearables; relevance to the research; and the availability of a full text.

Results:

1585 unique records were identified. Exclusion based on the selection criteria resulted in the inclusion of 20 studies. Three main themes emerged, regarding: the role of providers, and the benefits to providers from promoting the use of wearables; how wearables can drive behavioural change; and the barriers to using wearables.

Conclusions:

Wearables can empower individuals, by assisting with: diagnosis, behavioural change and self-monitoring. However, greater adoption of wearables will rely on various factors, including: promotion and support from providers to encourage uptake; increased short-term investment to upskill staff, especially in data analysis; and overcoming the barriers to usage, particularly by improving device accuracy. As advances in technology to make wearables a viable option have only come about recently, further studies will be important for measuring the effectiveness of wearables in empowering individuals.