Wearables and Their Potential to Transform Health Management: A Step towards Sustainable Development Goal 3

Lydia Izu (), Brenda Scholtz and Ifeoluwapo Fashoro
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Lydia Izu: Department of Computing Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa
Brenda Scholtz: Department of Computing Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa
Ifeoluwapo Fashoro: Department of Computing Sciences, Nelson Mandela University, Gqeberha 6001, South Africa

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 5, 1-23

Abstract: In the era of rapid technological advancement, wearables have emerged as a promising tool for enhancing health and well-being. The convergence of health and technology drives an unprecedented change in the approach to health and well-being management. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential role of wearables in actualising health and well-being, thereby paving the way for a healthier and more sustainable future. Using the Affordance Theory lens, this paper delves into the transformative potential of wearables in health and well-being management, thereby promoting Sustainable Development Goal 3 to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all at all ages. The thematic analysis of online reviews on wearable devices captured through web scraping was carried out to explore the potential of these devices in the management of health and well-being. The paper explored how wearables, often integrated into everyday life, can monitor vital signs, track fitness metrics, and even provide therapeutic benefits for health and well-being. The findings reveal that wearables can empower individuals to take charge of their health by leveraging real-time data and personalised feedback, promoting a proactive and preventive approach to health management and resource-effective healthcare. Furthermore, the paper highlights how wearables can contribute to long-term health outcomes for the present generation without exerting excessive strain on the resources for future generations.

Keywords: health and well-being; sustainability; wearable; sustainable development; health data (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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