Life-Saving Insights: Wearable Devices for Remote Indigenous Heart Health

A recent study explored the use of wearable devices to monitor heart health in older Indigenous people living remotely. The study found that wearables, such as smart watches, significantly increased participants' health knowledge and confidence, leading to life-saving interventions. The program was well-received, with minimal concerns over privacy.

A new study has highlighted the potential of wearable devices to monitor heart health in older Indigenous people living in remote areas. Researchers from the University of Newcastle and Macquarie University found that wearables like smart watches can capture crucial heart data, ultimately leading to life-saving interventions.

In the small-scale study, 11 participants aged between 55 and 78 used chest patches and smart watches to monitor their heart health over five days. The program, designed in collaboration with an Aboriginal-controlled health service, not only proved effective but was also well-received by the community.

Despite harsh conditions including high temperatures and unreliable internet, participants expressed enthusiasm and confidence in the program. The study revealed that increased health knowledge gained through the use of wearables had positive ripple effects on the broader community, especially among older Indigenous women.

(With inputs from agencies.)