Readiness among people with epilepsy to carry body-worn monitor devices in everyday life: A qualitative study

Abstract

ObjectiveThere have been intensive efforts to design and develop new wearable technology for epileptic seizure detection. Several studies have focused on the technical aspects, but the readiness of patients with epilepsy (PWEs) to use wearables in everyday life, which is crucial, remains relatively unexplored. MethodsWe conducted a qualitative interview study involving eight PWEs. The study was designed to provide insights into patient readiness to use wearables for home monitoring of epilepsy. ResultsThree themes were identified: 1) making invisible situations visible, 2) having companionship within a troubled everyday life, and 3) sharing ownership of no recognizable moments. The analysis and interpretation revealed that the expectations of the participants for wearables were rooted in aspects that had a significant impact on their lives and self-image. ConclusionPatients with epilepsy disclosed that their readiness to use technology, specifically wearables, in everyday life relied on the assumption that they would provide an existential and comforting experience, in which the voids of their individual needs would be addressed in a more patient-friendly manner. Wearable design should consider the valuable insight that technology should be more than just technical tools that monitor symptoms; wearables are expected to be existential and esthetic artifacts that provide PWEs with meaningful experience.