Introduction to smart wearables in active ageing

In most modern societies where technology and medicine have dramatically advanced, the ageing population is increasing due to the extension of life expectancy (Gu, Andreev & Dupre, 2021). However, the increase in life expectancy does not necessarily mean that the ageing population is thriving. Longevity without independence and dignity can feel somewhat unworthy. Many of us have witnessed seniors living until 95 but spending their last decade in bed, dependent on medicines and care, or residing in care homes feeling miserable and disconnected from loved ones.

Source: ONS (2022), Principal projection – UK population in age groups. Available at: ONS Population Projections

So, is the increase in life expectancy the key ingredient to a successful and fulfilling life? It seems that it is not. Seniors need more than that to achieve what scientists call "successful ageing". Successful ageing is based on three components: limited disease-associated disability, high cognitive and physical function, and continued engagement with life (Morley, 2015). It is also suggested that successful ageing can be achieved through ageing-in-place, a concept that promotes living at home while maintaining independence, social connections, and dignity. This profoundly impacts seniors' health and mental state and is considered more desirable and fulfilling (Puri et al., 2017).

Nevertheless, no matter how appealing this concept sounds, it does not combat the fact that seniors still suffer from degenerative diseases and age-related illnesses, the main causes of mortality nowadays (Araullo & Potter, 2016). This has led to increased use of wearable health monitoring technologies, ranging from medication reminders and fall prevention to physical condition data transmission to medical centres (Li et al., 2019; Puri et al., 2017). Thankfully, there are solutions that can mitigate this situation.