Health monitoring through wearable technologies for older adults: Smart wearables acceptance model

In the context of a fast aging population, ubiquitous usage of smart wearable systems can alleviate the social burden caused by the increasing need of older adults for healthcare and assistance. To facilitate and encourage the use of smart wearable systems among older adults, this study investigated the factors that contribute to the acceptance of such systems, and smart wearables acceptance model for older adults was developed using structural equation modeling. The model was validated using 146 survey samples collected from adults aged 60 years and above. The results indicated that perceived usefulness, compatibility, facilitating conditions, and self-reported health status significantly and positively affect older adults' intention to use such technologies. Useful implications and insights were provided to future researchers and practitioners to enhance older adults’ acceptance of smart wearable systems. •A smart wearables acceptance model for older adults is developed and tested.•Facilitating conditions, compatibility and health status directly affect intention.•Social risk is not a significant concern on wearables acceptance.•Older adults who are rich and well-educated are more likely to use smart wearables.