Introduction: To evaluate if the offering of Fitbit technology led to changes in cardiovascular health metrics in a cohort of older adults. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was developed in two community-embedded health monitoring sites, located in aggregate housing communities for older adults in Westchester County, NY. Participants included older adults (55 years or older) enrolled in the Telehealth Intervention Programs for Seniors (TIPS) initiative, a community-embedded remote patient monitoring initiative. Weekly blood pressure, heart rate, weight, and blood oxygenation were taken on all participants. For participants who accepted a Fitbit Zip device, a weekly step count was also collected. Results: Ninety-four TIPS participants were offered Fitbit technology. Thirty participants accepted the technology and used it for a minimum of 6 months. No significant differences in any of the regularly acquired biometrics were noted between Fitbit users and non-Fitbit users. Across all participants, regardless of Fitbit use, there was a significant decrease in systolic blood pressure (SBP) over time. Conclusions: Neither Fitbit Zip ownership or compliance to Fitbit Zip usage influenced any of the biometrics taken as part of the TIPS. However, participation in the TIPS initiative may have an overall positive effect on SBP in older adults.
Keywords: Fitbit; hypertension; telehealth; telemedicine; wearable technology.