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Review
. 2019 Oct 19:18:100283.
doi: 10.1016/j.invent.2019.100283. eCollection 2019 Dec.

A narrative synthesis systematic review of digital self-monitoring interventions for middle-aged and older adults

Sara Laureen Bartels  1 , Rosalia J M van Knippenberg  1 , Fania C M Dassen  1 , Eric Asaba  2 , Ann-Helen Patomella  2 , Camilla Malinowsky  2 , Frans R J Verhey  1 , Marjolein E de Vugt  1
Affiliations
Review

A narrative synthesis systematic review of digital self-monitoring interventions for middle-aged and older adults

Sara Laureen Bartels et al. Internet Interv. .

Abstract

Objective: Self-monitoring is crucial to raise awareness for own behaviors and emotions, and thus facilitate self-management. The composition of self-monitoring within interventions, however, varies and guidelines are currently unavailable. This review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of technology-based self-monitoring interventions that intend to improve health in middle-aged and older adults (>45 years).

Methods: Five online databases were systematically searched and articles were independently screened. A narrative synthesis of 26 studies with 21 unique interventions was conducted. Primary focus lay on the composition of self-monitoring within interventions, including technology used, health-aspects monitored, and type of feedback provided. Secondly, the usability of/adherence to the self-monitoring treatment, intervention effects, and their sustainability were examined.

Findings: Studies concentrated on middle-aged adults (mean of 51 years). Mobile technologies seem necessary to ensure flexible self-monitoring in everyday life. Social health aspects were rarely monitored. Mechanisms and the sustainability of intervention effect are understudied.

Conclusion: Digital self-monitoring technologies hold promise for future trials as they seem suitable to understand and support health-related self-management. Key elements including automatic and personal feedback following the blended care principle were highlighted and may guide study designs. Prospectively, research is especially needed to study sustained self-monitoring to support disease prevention and lasting lifestyle changes.

Keywords: Intervention; Middle-aged and older adults; Mobile technology; Momentary assessment; Self-monitoring.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Flow-chart of the review process from data extraction to qualitative synthesis. Note: a‘None or limited use of ESM’: ESM as outcome only (n = 21), <2 aspects of health monitored (n = 105), ESM on <3 consecutive days (n = 19).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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