# Fitness Apps and Wearables May Boost Steps in Older Adults

*Effects of Multicomponent Digital Health Interventions on Multidimensional Physical Activity in Older Adults: Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression of Randomized Controlled Trials.*

- **Evidence Level**: Moderate
- **Publication Types**: Journal Article, Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, Review
- **Journal**: Journal of medical Internet research
- **Sample Size**: 4,129 older adults across 26 trials
- **Authors**: Yao J, Wang H, Jia S, Chen H, He J, Long J, Chen S
- **Published**: 2026-05-29
- **Topics**: physical activity, digital health, aging
- **DOI**: https://doi.org/10.2196/91338
- **Original Source**: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42214075/

## Summary

Looking at 26 trials with over 4,000 older adults, digital tools like wearables and apps helped people walk about 800 more steps per day and get 46 more minutes of moderate exercise per week. But they didn't significantly cut sitting time or boost light activity. Standalone wearables and tools paired with human coaching worked best.

## Practical Takeaway

This research suggests wearables or fitness apps may help older adults move more.

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_Canonical: https://longevity-switzerland.com/en/research/fitness-apps-and-wearables-may-boost-steps-in-older-adults · Part of Longevity Cities · Updated 2026-05-29_