Exploratory study of the implications of research on the use of smart connected devices for prevention: a scoping review

Abstract

BackgroundSmart devices and mobile applications are now an integral part of all aspects of everyday life. They are particularly numerous in the field of health, contributing to the movement called ehealth. What is the potential role of these devices as prevention supports? The purpose of this article is to provide an exploratory analysis of the use, efficacy and contribution to conventional prevention strategies.MethodsTo address this issue, we conducted a scoping-review on the basis of 105 publications from the fields of medicine and human sciences.ResultsThree dimensions of the use of smart devices in the field of health were identified: 1/a quantification tool allowing the users to measure their activities; 2/a tool of self-positioning in the community; 3/an interface between the medical world and the population, modifying the hierarchy of knowledge. However, few published studies have investigated the determinants of the efficacy of these devices and their impact on individual behaviours and professional health practices.ConclusionBased on the hypothesis of possible integration of these devices in prevention policies, it would be interesting to investigate two research issues: how and under what psycho-socio-environmental conditions can smart devices contribute to the adoption of positive health behaviours? To what degree does the use of smart devices modify the health care professional-patient relationship? Finding answers to these questions could help to define the real place of these devices in prevention strategies by determining their complementarity with respect to other prevention strategies, and the conditions of their efficacy on behaviours and inequalities.

Home‐hit improves muscle capillarisation and eNOS/NAD(P)Hoxidase protein ratio in obese individuals with elevated cardiovascular disease risk

“…). Allowing the research team to provide feedback to participants throughout the intervention also probably improved motivation by creating a supportive environment (Petit & Cambon, ). In addition, knowing the research team were monitoring exercise may have increased motivation to adhere to the programme.…”

“…Previous work in sedentary individuals has shown that immediate feedback illustrating HR can positivity influence participant motivation (Kinnafick et al 2018). Allowing the research team to provide feedback to participants throughout the intervention also probably improved motivation by creating a supportive environment (Petit & Cambon, 2016). In addition, knowing the research team were monitoring exercise may have increased motivation to adhere to the programme.…”

Protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial of the use of Physical ACtivity monitors in an Exercise Referral Setting: the PACERS study

“…Technologies such as activity monitors provide opportunities to enhance delivery of goal setting and feedback, allowing for more frequent and automatic feedback on progress towards activity goals, tailored updating of goals based on achievement and remote contact with intervention providers [ 23 ]. In addition to addressing psychological needs for competence, incorporation of social components may support motivation through promoting relatedness to other service users.…”

Narrative Review: Technologies in Eldercare

“…Several initiatives exist in regard to the use of technology in eldercare. Numerous technologies are promoted in eldercare (van Hoof et al 2011, Pritchard and Brittain 2015, Garmann-Johnsen and Eikebrokk 2017, Petit and Cambon 2016, Pols 2017, Peeters, Wiegers, and Friele 2013, including telehealth services, telecare, smart devices, monitoring technology, personal alarms, ambient living technology, and welfare technology (Hofmann 2013). All of these are said to enable a safer, healthier, and more active lifestyle for older people, thereby maximising their independence, quality of life, and well-being (Milligan, Roberts, andMort 2011, Sánchez, Taylor, andBing-Jonsson 2017).…”