Feasibility and Acceptability of Incorporating Smartwatches Into an Exercise is Medicine Program in Older Individuals

The effects of exercise on prevention and improved control of chronic diseases, reduced mortality, and improved quality of life are well established. Exercise has been shown to prevent heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, depression, and certain types of cancers. In addition to prevention, physical activity is included in the standard or care for many chronic diseases and used in treatment. For example, the American Diabetes Association has identified positive health behaviors like physical activity as foundational in the treatment and management of disease and improving overall quality of life. The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center Exercise is Medicine Program (EIM) is a physician referral program that aims to increase physical activity to prevent and reduce complications from chronic disease. The integration of technology among a 65+ population of EIM participants provides a novel approach to improving individual's health. Thus, our study aims to provide EIM participants aged 65+ with smartwatches in the hopes of increasing their overall physical activity levels.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 65+ * No healthcare provider-imposed limitations on physical activity * English-speaking Exclusion Criteria: * Symptoms suggestive of coronary artery disease (CAD) or congestive heart failure (CHF) (i.e. chest pain, dizziness, syncope, excessive dyspnea on exertion) * Myocardial infarction within the last 12 months * Revascularization within the last 12 months * Stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA) within the past 12 months * Unstable angina * Congestive heart failure (New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class II, III or IV) * Ventricular arrhythmia * Clinically significant cardiac valve disease * Blood pressure \>160/100 mmHg * Uncontrolled seizure disorder * Major surgery within the past three months * Severe or frequent hypoglycemia * Inability to independently manage blood glucose during activity * Severe autonomic or peripheral neuropathy * Active foot ulcers * Unstable retinopathy.