Systematic Review: Wearable Devices for Health Monitoring and Their Application in Thailand

Abstract

Thailand’s rapidly aging population, projected to reach 31% by 2040, faces increasing rates of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension and diabetes, which place significant strain on the healthcare system and diminish quality of life. Wearable health monitoring devices present a promising solution for early detection and chronic disease management, particularly when integrated with telehealth services. This review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of these devices in elderly health monitoring, explore factors that facilitate or hinder their adoption, and assess their suitability for use in Thailand. Using the PRISMA framework, 35 empirical studies published between 2019 and 2023 were analyzed from databases including PubMed, Scopus, ThaiJo, and Google Scholar. The findings indicate that wearable devices contribute to improved health tracking and management of chronic conditions, especially diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, and offer added value through real-time monitoring and telehealth connectivity. Nonetheless, several barriers hinder widespread use, including device inaccuracy, high costs, limited digital literacy, and discomfort during use-issues that are particularly pronounced among elderly individuals in rural areas. To unlock the full potential of wearable health technologies in Thailand, it is essential to address economic, technological, usability, and infrastructure challenges through targeted interventions and inclusive policies that promote equitable access and adoption among older adults.