The use of wearables and health apps and the willingness to share self-collected data among older adults

Abstract

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to examine the extent to which older adults utilize mobile health tracking tools in everyday life and their willingness to share the collected health-related data with doctors, health insurance companies, or research institutions. MethodsThis study used a survey to assess mobile device use (smartphone, tablet, fitness tracker, and smartwatch), health app use (e.g., health insurance apps, fitness apps), and willingness to share health-related data in 1,149 Swiss adults aged ≥ 65 years. Results75.0% of the participants used at least one mobile device; 22.9% used health-related apps. Younger individuals and those with a strong interest in new technology had a higher likelihood of using health apps. Participants were more often willing to share their data with doctors than with health insurance companies or researchers; this willingness was also influenced by an affinity for technology. DiscussionThese results support the promotion of mHealth adoption among older adults by developers and policymakers.