Analysis of Older Adults in Spanish Care Facilities, Risk of Falling and Daily Activity Using Xiaomi Mi Band 2

Abstract

Background: Presently the use of technological devices such as wearable devices has emerged. Physical activity monitoring with wearable sensors is an easy and non-intrusive approach to encourage preventive care for older adults. It may be useful to follow a continuous assessment of the risk of falling. The objective is to explore the relationship between the daily activity measured by Xiaomi Mi Band 2 and the risk of falling of older adults residing in or attending care facilities. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on three different institutions located in Galicia (autonomous community) (Spain). Results: A total of 31 older adults were included in the study, with a mean age of 84 ± 8.71 years old. The main findings obtained were that a greater number of steps and distance could be related to a lower probability of falling, of dependency in basic activities of daily living, or of mobility problems. Conclusions: The importance of focusing on daily steps, intrinsically related to the objective assessment of daily physical activity, is that it is a modifiable factor that impacts different aspects of health and quality of life.

Monitoring of Older Adults’ Daily Activity and Sleep with Xiaomi Mi Band 2

“…It affects their level of independence and quality of life, taking into account the repercussions of falls. This study suggested that wearable devices, like Xiaomi Mi Band 2, may be used for appropriate assessments, which can help to identify people with daily activity and sleep problems [1].…”

“…However, it is known that with moderate physical activity levels, there can be significant results. Likewise, the relationship between staying physically active and engaging in regular physical activity, with health benefits, particularly in fall rate reduction, has been well documented for decades [1].…”

“…However, according to Tudor-Locke et al, this range fits a sedentary profile. These authors suggested that below 6000 daily steps could not provide health benefits [1].…”

“…Although the data were not supported by strong associations, the data showed an important aspect of using wearable devices. Wearable devices continuously monitor the person, which provides the approximate time that the person has been awake at night, and, therefore, they can help to understand their needs [1].…”

“…The evidence shows that the main wearable devices used in older adults' populations were wristbands, activity monitors, or accelerometers. The main objectives of using these devices are: (1) to explore the relationship between sleep behavior and gait performance; (2) to validate the devices by step count; (3) to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of the device; (4) to determine the validity of a device compared to Actigraph; or (5) to understand the use of wristbands by older adults by conducting qualitative or mixed studies. Accordingly, this study aims to analyze the utility of the Xiaomi Mi Band 2 to assess older adults' daily activity and sleep [1].…”