Accepted for/Published in: Journal of Medical Internet Research
Date Submitted: May 3, 2024
Date Accepted: Oct 12, 2024
Efficacy of a wearable activity tracker with step-by-step goal-setting on older adults’ physical activity and sarcopenia indicators: A clustered trial
ABSTRACT
Background:
Smart wearable technology has potential benefits for promoting physical activity and preventing sarcopenia.
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to explore the efficacy of smartwatches with two-stage goal-setting of daily steps on older adults’ physical activity and sarcopenia indicators.
Methods:
The study used a clustered trial design and was conducted in March to June 2022. Participants were community-dwelling older adults aged over 60 years and recruited from four community centers in Taipei City. The intervention was designed with two-stage goals set to 5000 steps/day in the first 4 weeks and 7500 steps/day in the final 4 weeks by wearing a commercial smartwatch. Data were collected by self-reported questionnaires, a body composition analyzer, a handle grip, and five sit-to-stand tests.
Results:
All 27 participants in the experimental group and 31 participants in the control group completed the 8-week intervention. Total and light-intensity physical activity, skeletal muscle index, and muscle strength increased while sedentary times, body mass index, and waist circumference of participants decreased in the experimental group with significant group-by-time interactions compared to the control group.
Conclusions:
Smartwatches with gradual goal-setting are an efficient approach to improve older adults' physical activity and sarcopenia indicators. Smart wearable products with behavioral change techniques are recommended to prevent sarcopenia in older adult populations.
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