Older adults’ satisfaction of wearing consumer-level activity monitors

There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that consumer-level activity monitors are a valid means of measuring physical activity in older adults. Understanding whether older adults are satisfied with wearing these activity monitors is an important step to ensuring that devices can be successfully implemented in clinical and research settings. Twenty-five older adults (mean age = 72.5 years, standard deviation = 4.9) wore two consumer-level activity monitors (Misfit Shine and Fitbit Charge HR) for seven consecutive days. After the week, participants were asked for their views and satisfaction of wearing each device, measured in part by the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with assistive Technology. Participants were generally satisfied with most aspects of the devices, though they were significantly more satisfied with the Misfit Shine. Participants were critical about their ability to adjust the fit of both the Misfit Shine and Fitbit Charge HR. Interestingly, the perceived satisfaction with the device was not associated with participants’ consideration of wearing the device again. Future research needs to consider whether the design of consumer-level activity monitors are best suited for older adults.