SAIVA Supports Study On Fitness Devices And Sentiment In Older Adults

The South Asian International Volunteer Association (SAIVA) recently participated in a community research initiative exploring how fitness technology can motivate older adults to stay active.

The study, “Gamification and Motivation in Older Adults: An Analysis of Fitness Device Use and Sentiment,” was conducted by Ayan Malpani under the guidance of Dr. Harlan Beverly at Texas State University.

SAIVA volunteers helped connect researchers with older adults in the community, assisting with outreach and participation.

The study surveyed 28 adults between the ages of 60 and 95 to understand how gamified features in devices like Fitbit and Apple Watch affect exercise motivation.

The results showed that 53.6% of participants owned a fitness device, and 87% of those users reported increased motivation to exercise. Step goals and friendly family competitions were the most motivating features. However, many non-users said devices were too complicated, highlighting the need for simpler and more age-friendly designs.

Researchers also found a moderate negative correlation between age and sentiment, suggesting that motivation from these devices may decrease slightly with older age.

Many participants expressed interest in improvements such as larger text, voice guidance, and cognitive games to make devices easier and more engaging to use.

Through its involvement, SAIVA helped bridge academic research and community participation, giving older adults a voice in shaping future health technologies.

SAIVA continues to make a positive impact in the community. For more information about SAIVA or see how you can get involved visit saiva.org for more information