A Systematic Review of Wearable Sensors and IoT-Based Monitoring Applications for Older Adults - a Focus on Ageing Population and Independent Living

Abstract

This review aims to present current advancements in wearable technologies and IoT-based applications to support independent living. The secondary aim was to investigate the barriers and challenges of wearable sensors and Internet-of-Things (IoT) monitoring solutions for older adults. For this work, we considered falls and activity of daily life (ADLs) for the ageing population (older adults). A total of 327 articles were screened, and 14 articles were selected for this review. This review considered recent studies published between 2015 and 2019. The research articles were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and studies that support or present a vision to provide advancement to the current space of ADLs, independent living and supporting the ageing population. Most studies focused on the system aspects of wearable sensors and IoT monitoring solutions including advanced sensors, wireless data collection, communication platform and usability. Moderate to low usability/ user-friendly approach is reported in most of the studies. Other issues found were inaccurate sensors, battery/ power issues, restricting the users within the monitoring area/ space and lack of interoperability. The advancement of wearable technology and the possibilities of using advanced IoT technology to assist older adults with their ADLs and independent living is the subject of many recent research and investigation.

Keywords: Ageing population; Falls; Independent living; IoT; Older adults; Wearable devices; Wearable technology.