It wasn’t long ago when analysts forecast a rosy future in which everyone would have devices on their wrists offering all sorts of data about their steps, heart rate, sleep patterns and calories burned. The excitement was palpable and the possibilities seemed endless. Now, we’re seeing the excitement waning for many wearable devices as long-term use and engagement is sometimes an issue.
At Vitality, wearables are an important part of a verifiable incentive-based workforce health program. And we’ve conducted a great deal of research to ensure the devices and incentive structures positively impact the health and well-being of our members.
In fact, a recent six-month analysis of Vitality Active RewardsTM with Apple Watch participants illustrates that not only do members exhibit substantial increases in activity, but – more importantly – they have sustained those increases in the months following the benefit’s launch.
So, what’s the key to ensuring long-term use of and engagement with these devices? Well, we’re glad you asked. The key is to create proper incentives, aligned with the right technology, to drive sustained healthy behavior. And Vitality Active Rewards with Apple Watch motivates members to engage in physical activity through their ability to pay for Apple Watch.
Care to learn more? On Thursday, July 20 at 12 p.m. ET, Holt Vaughan, Product Marketing for Apple, will join us for a live webcast and share his insights on how Apple Watch is changing the way people engage with wearable devices.
We’ll share details of our current research on the effectiveness of health and fitness devices on physical activity long term as well as ways our program is structured to ensure our clients and their members get the most out of wearable technology, moving from tracking steps to improving overall health and productivity.
