The Impact of Wearable Technology on Personal Health Management

Wearable technology has revolutionized the way we think about and manage our health. From fitness trackers to smartwatches, these devices allow us to monitor our physical activity, heart rate and even sleep patterns. The popularity of wearable technology has skyrocketed in recent years, with millions of people around the world relying on these devices to track their health and wellness. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the impact of wearable technology on personal health management.

One of the most significant benefits of wearable technology is its ability to help people maintain a healthy lifestyle. With a fitness tracker, for example, you can track the number of steps you take each day, the number of calories you burn, and the amount of time you spend exercising. This information can be incredibly valuable in helping you set realistic goals and track your progress towards a healthier lifestyle. Moreover, wearable technology can be a great motivator. When you can see your progress in real time, it’s easier to stay motivated and stick to your health goals.

Smart Watches

Smartwatches, which formerly served only as timepieces and step counters, have evolved into clinically useful healthcare instruments. In order to track users’ heart rhythms and notify those who are experiencing atrial fibrillation, Apple released the Apple Heart Study app in 2017.

In September 2022, the company unveiled its newest two-watch models. The Series 8 model from Apple is jam-packed with industry-leading health features, such as a cutting-edge temperature sensor that enables advanced features for women’s health and Crash Detection for serious auto accidents. With a faster processor and longer battery life than its predecessor, the second-generation Apple Watch SE is a great Series 8 alternative for those on a tighter budget.

Wearable Technology and ECG Monitors

Wearable ECG monitors are on the cutting edge of consumer electronics, and what sets these monitors apart from some smartwatches, is their ability to measure electrocardiograms or ECGs. Business Insider reported on Withings winning best wearable at the 2019 Consumer Electronics Show with their Move ECG product.

The Move ECG is able to measure an electrocardiogram and send the reading to the user’s doctor, as well as detect atrial fibrillation. It’s also able to track pace, distance, and elevation, as well as automatic tracking for walking, running, swimming, and biking.

Wearable Blood Pressure Monitors

2019 saw the introduction of HeartGuide, the first wearable blood pressure monitor, by Omron Healthcare. HeartGuide is an oscillometric blood pressure monitor that can measure blood pressure as well as daily activity, such as steps taken, distance travelled, and calories burned. It may look like a typical smartwatch.

Up to 100 readings can be stored in memory by HeartGuide, and all readings can be exported to the corresponding mobile app, HeartAdvisor, for analysis, comparison, and treatment planning. Users of HeartAdvisor can track, store, and share their data with their doctors while also learning how their personal habits affect their blood pressure.

Potential Growth of Wearable Technology And Personal Health Management

Wearable technology also has the potential to improve our overall health by providing us with early warning signs of potential health problems. For example, many wearable devices now offer heart rate monitoring capabilities, allowing users to track their heart rate in real time. This can be especially useful for people with heart conditions, as it allows them to monitor their heart rate and detect any abnormal changes. Wearable devices can also monitor sleep patterns, alerting users to any disruptions in their sleep and helping them identify any sleep-related issues.

Another benefit of wearable technology is its ability to help people manage chronic conditions more effectively. For example, wearable devices can track blood sugar levels for people with diabetes, helping them to better manage their condition and reduce the risk of complications. Similarly, wearable devices can monitor medication schedules for people with chronic conditions, reminding them to take their medication on time and ensuring they adhere to their treatment plan.

Challenges Faced in Wearable Technology

However, it’s important to note that wearable technology is not without its challenges. For starters, the accuracy of wearable devices can be questionable. While some devices are highly accurate, others may not be as reliable, providing users with inaccurate data. This can be especially problematic for people with serious health conditions, as they may make decisions based on incorrect information.

Another challenge with wearable technology is privacy concerns. Many wearable devices collect sensitive personal data, such as heart rate and sleep patterns, which can be vulnerable to hacking and data breaches. To ensure that their personal information is kept safe, users must be vigilant about the security of their wearable devices and take steps to protect their data.

Finally, wearable technology can be an added expense for many people, especially those with limited financial resources. While there are some affordable wearable devices available, many high-end devices can be quite expensive. This can be a significant barrier for some people, limiting their ability to take advantage of the benefits of wearable technology.

In conclusion,

wearable technology has had a significant impact on personal health management, providing people with the tools they need to maintain a healthy lifestyle, monitor their health, and manage chronic conditions more effectively. However, it’s important to be aware of the challenges associated with wearable technology, including accuracy concerns, privacy risks, and added costs. Nevertheless, the benefits of wearable technology are undeniable, and as technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and useful devices emerge in the future.