Exploring the Role of Wearable Electronic Medical Devices in Enhancing Patient Safety and Quality of Life for Older Adults: A Systematic Review

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Executive Director of Corporate Quality improvement and patient safety. Hamad Medical Corporation. Doha -Qatar.

2 Nursing Informatics Department. Hamad Medical Corporation. Doha -Qatar

3 Older Adult Care Department , Hamad Medical Corporation . Doha -Qatar.

Abstract

As the global population of older adults continues to grow, there is an increasing need for innovative approaches to support their health, safety, and quality of life. Wearable electronic medical devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, have emerged as promising tools in healthcare by providing continuous monitoring, personalized feedback, and real-time health data.This systematic review examines the impact of wearable devices on patient safety and quality of life specifically among older adults. The review analyzes studies that focus on how these devices assist in monitoring vital signs, detecting falls, managing chronic conditions, and encouraging physical activity, which is crucial for maintaining functional independence. Findings indicate that wearable devices can enhance patient safety by enabling early detection of health issues, promoting medication adherence, and reducing emergency incidents. Additionally, wearables are shown to support higher levels of physical activity, contributing to improved mental health and functional ability. However, challenges remain, including device usability, privacy concerns, and accessibility issues among older populations. This review highlights the potential benefits and limitations of wearable devices, offering insights into how healthcare providers and caregivers can better integrate this technology to improve patient safety and quality of life for older adults.

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