Thesis Format
Monograph
Degree
Master of Science
Program
Health and Rehabilitation Sciences
Supervisor
Roberts, Angela C.
Abstract
Paired with health feedback, wearable technologies can influence health behaviours in older adults and those with neurodegenerative diseases (NDD). However, our understanding of how feedback influences behaviour in these groups is limited. The author completed a secondary analysis of survey responses from 203 participants, 98 controls and 105 with NDD enrolled in the Health in Aging, Neurodegenerative Diseases and Dementias in Ontario Study. Participants received personalized health feedback reports generated from wearable sensor data. There were no group differences in the proportion of people endorsing (p = 0.086, η² = 0.12) or the number of health behaviour changes made (t(200.31) = 1.283, p = 0.201, d = 0.180). Two factors were influential: sharing reports with family/friends (OR = 2.258, p = 0.021) and perceived report helpfulness (OR = 0.527, p = 0.001). A thematic analysis revealed subthemes of contemplating change, seeking health information, and social support in behaviour change.
Summary for Lay Audience
As we age, managing our health becomes increasingly important, especially for those living with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson disease. These conditions affect the brain, nervous system, and function, leading to symptoms like memory loss and difficulties with daily activities. This research examines how a personalized health feedback report plus a single guided review session can help older adults and people with neurodegenerative brain diseases change their health behaviours. This study uses data from the Health in Aging, Neurodegenerative Diseases and Dementias in Ontario Study. In this study, data were analyzed from 203 older adults, 98 healthy adults (controls) and 105 people with neurodegenerative brain diseases (NDD). Participants wore a set of wearable devices for 7-10 days. These data were used to generate a personalized health feedback report (physical activity, sleeping, and sedentary behaviour) that was shared with participants in a brief guided review session. After a period of approximately four weeks, participants completed a guided survey and interview where they reported on the usefulness and helpfulness of the report, how they used the report, and any health behaviour changes they had made since receiving the report. The results showed the personalized feedback reports encouraged many participants to make positive behaviour changes, such as becoming more active, improving their sleep routines, and reducing time spent sitting. Several engaged others in the behaviour change process. Participants with NDD were as likely as controls to make at least one health behaviour change. The number of health behaviour changes made did not differ between the groups. This research informs how wearable technology, combined with personalized feedback, can play a pivotal role in helping older adults and those living with neurodegenerative brain diseases take control of their health.
Recommended Citation
Narayan, Emily, "Health Behaviour Changes following Personalized Feedback Reports: A HANDDS-ONT Study." (2025). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10654.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10654
