Elissa Burton (Research Fellow Curtin University), Con Hofstee (SwanCare resident) and Yvonne and Ken Power (SwanCare residents) wearing their Fitbits.
Camera IconElissa Burton (Research Fellow Curtin University), Con Hofstee (SwanCare resident) and Yvonne and Ken Power (SwanCare residents) wearing their Fitbits. Credit: Supplied/Marie Nirme

Curtin Uni study to monitor SwanCare residents wearing Fitbits

Pia van StraalenCanning Gazette

SENIORS in Bentley have strapped on the latest technology to track their fitness and encourage movement and mental well-being.

Joining a study led by Curtin University, about 30 seniors from SwanCare have committed to wearing fitness trackers – known as Fitbits – over a two-week period, to check their accuracy in terms of measuring distance, as well as their ease of use.

This type of technology is usually only tested only on younger people, but introducing new technology and methods to the aged is a strategy to boost confidence in the changing tech landscape.

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Researcher Elissa Burton from Curtin’s School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science said it was an opportunity for people to gain confidence and strength.

SwanCare chief executive Graham Francis said the organisation was happy residents were getting involved with the project, particularly given the potential benefits of the innovative study.

“We have an enthusiastic community of seniors here at SwanCare, and when we promoted this study, dozens of residents came forward wanting to participate,” he said.

“Exercise, fitness and staying active are all important lifestyle aspects which we are keen to promote at SwanCare, so the opportunity to partner with Curtin on a study which will hold significance for people wanting to live healthy lifestyles into the future, was a great opportunity that we were keen to be involved with.”

The Curtin University fitness tracker study will continue collecting data until November, with results available early next year.