Wearable device for sedentary behavior change in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is feasible and acceptable

Abstract

Abstract RATIONALE: Individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exhibit reduced physical activity (PA) and increased sedentary behavior (SB), both of which are independent predictors of mortality. Wearable technology providing vibration movement prompts may be effective in decreasing SB. This study aimed to assess the feasibility and perceptions of a vibration based FitBit™ SB change strategy in individuals with COPD. METHODS Individuals with stable COPD wore a FitBit™ with movement prompts enabled and disabled for one week each (order randomized). Feasibility and perceptions of the wearable device were assessed in each condition. A validated activity monitor (ActivPAL4™) was used to measure PA and SB. MAIN RESULTS: Of the 28 participants connected with, 19 (68%) expressed interest. A total of 18 of the 19 (95%) interested were eligible to participate, and 15 of 28 (54%) enrolled. All 15 participants completed the study with no dropouts. Nine (64%) participants identified the device as affordable. Perceptions toward the devices were generally positive or agreeable and were unaffected by the device condition (with or without prompts; P > 0.05). Responses to additional open-ended questions revealed that participants thought the device was helpful for breaking up sitting time, the timing of vibration reminders was perceived as confusing by some, and accessibility of the devices and individual preferences are important considerations. CONCLUSIONS The wearable device SB reduction strategy was feasible and participants had positive perceptions toward using it. Individualization and accessibility of device are important considerations.