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Wearables in the Real World: A Usage Study
Purpose: To understand how many seniors currently own fall detection devices, how often these devices are worn, and the specific barriers preventing regular usage.
1.
Which of the following best describes you?
I am a senior (answering for myself).
I am an adult child or family member of a senior.
I am a professional caregiver.
2.
Do you (or the senior you care for) currently own a dedicated medical alert system or a smartwatch with fall detection features?
Yes, a dedicated medical alert button (necklace or wristband).
Yes, a smartwatch (e.g., Apple Watch, Galaxy Watch) with fall detection enabled.
No, we do not own any such device.
I am not sure.
3.
How long have you (or the senior) owned this device?
Less than 1 month
1–6 months
6 months – 1 year
More than 1 year
4.
On a typical day, how often is the device worn?
24/7 (including while sleeping and bathing).
All day, but taken off for sleep.
All day, but taken off for bathing/showering.
Only when leaving the house.
Rarely (less than once a week).
Never.
5.
If the device is taken off at night, what is the primary reason?
It is uncomfortable to sleep in.
It needs to charge overnight.
Fear of setting off a false alarm while sleeping.
Didn't know it should be worn at night.
N/A (It is worn at night).
6.
Has the device ever triggered a "False Alarm" (alerted emergency services or family when no fall occurred)?
Yes, frequently.
Yes, once or twice.
No, never.
Not sure.
7.
If you answered "Yes" to false alarms, did that experience make you (or the senior) less likely to wear the device?
Yes, significantly less likely.
Yes, somewhat less likely.
No, it did not change habits.
N/A
8.
What is the biggest complaint about the device?
It is ugly / stigmatizing (makes me look "old").
It is physically uncomfortable or bulky.
The battery life is too short.
It is too complicated to use.
I forget to put it on.
No complaints.
Other (please specify)
9.
(For non-owners) What is the main reason you (or the senior) do not currently have a fall detection device?
Cost (device is too expensive or requires a monthly fee).
Don't believe it is necessary / I am not at risk of falling.
Don't want to wear something that looks like a medical device.
Concerned about privacy/tracking.
Tech is too confusing.
N/A I have a device.
Other (please specify)
10.
What feature would make you most likely to use a new fall detection device in the future?
If it looked like a normal piece of jewelry or watch.
If the battery lasted for months without charging.
If it was completely waterproof (safe for showers).
If it was free or covered by insurance.
Nothing would convince me to wear one.
Other (please specify)
