AARP will be launching a new program that aims to test out remote monitoring healthcare devices on people over 50 years of age.
The study, sponsored by UnitedHealthcare and Pfizer, will be the initial item for AARP’s Project Catalyst program, an initiative that aims to accelerate innovation for aging Americans. The association is teaming with Georgia Tech Research Institute to conduct the study, which will see how 50-plus consumers test with five different sleep and activity tracking devices over a six-week period.
Researchers will aim to evaluate how the study participants use the products and will record barriers and user engagement with some of the most popular activity and sleep trackers on the market. They’ll look to see where these monitoring devices can improve to better fit the needs of the 50-plus crowd. The findings from the study on sleep and activity trackers will be available in June 2015.
“Technology that is designed well – designed for all – can be used by a 5-year-old and a 95-year-old, alike. We are thrilled about starting this study and commencing the launch of the Project Catalyst program,” Jody Holtzman, AARP senior vice president, said in a statement. “The goals of Project Catalyst are in direct alignment with the mission of AARP – to identify challenges and determine solutions to improve the quality of life for people as they age.”
The remote monitoring market has exploded in recent years and the industry could be poised for more growth. It is projected to grow to more than $5 billion by 2020, mostly due to telehealth expansion, according to a recent report from market researcher iData Research.
