Analysis of health changes and the association of health indicators in the elderly using TCM pulse diagnosis assisted with ICT devices: A time series study

Abstract

IntroductionThe utilization of information and communications technology (ICT) devices is a new way to record and analyze health data of the elderly. This time-series study aimed to analyze health changes, and the correlation between pulse manifestation and health indicators, in the elderly. MethodsWe conducted continuous 93-day monitoring of health data and pulse records in 8 elderly participants. A time series method was used to analyze health changes in participants. The correlation between pulse manifestation and health indicators was analyzed using a structural equation model. ResultsDuring the use of ICT devices, the number of steps taken by the elderly showed a significant increase (p < 0.05). According to the time series prediction formula, the number of steps predicted on day 94 was 8869.8. In practice, steps on day 94 were 8267.3; the difference between these values was within 10%. Personal health information, health habits, and physiological indicators had a direct impact on pulse manifestation; influence coefficients were 0.14, 0.18, and 0.05 respectively. ConclusionThrough the use of ICT devices, we can understand the health status of the elderly and make behavior predictions. Pulse manifestation data can indicate the health status of the elderly. Thus, ICT devices can be used as health management tools and assist doctors in making simple diagnoses.