Can healthcare apps and smart speakers improve the health behavior and depression of older adults? A quasi-experimental study

PURPOSE: This study identified the effects of applying information and communication technologies (ICT) to the health management of older adults aged 65 or older. METHODS: Older adults registered at public health centers were provided with the health management app “Health Today” and a smart speaker for 6 months to perform assigned healthcare missions. The program was conducted for 6 months by dividing participants into two groups: one that received both the health management app and the smart speaker, and another that used only the health management app. Depression, self-efficacy, number of days of moderate-intensity exercise, relative grip strength, balance tests, and five-times-sit-to-stand tests were measured during the pre- and post-evaluation. RESULTS: Both groups showed a positive health status and behavioral changes at post-evaluation. However, no reduced depression was observed due to communication and music listening functions in the group that was additionally provided smart speakers. CONCLUSION: ICT use in healthcare can be beneficial for older adults. However, whether these devices meet the purpose of the national health project must be determined, and an effect evaluation must be undertaken prior to providing these ICT devices for the health management of older adults in the public domain.