Wearable Electronic Devices for Alzheimer's Disease Care: A Systematic Review of Applications, Benefits, and Challenges

Overview

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, behavioral disturbances, and loss of functional independence. As the global prevalence of AD continues to rise, traditional episodic care models are increasingly inadequate for providing continuous and individualized support. Wearable electronic devices offer a potential alternative by enabling non-invasive, real-time monitoring in everyday settings. This systematic review synthesizes current evidence on the applications, reported outcomes, and implementation challenges of wearable and wearable-adjacent technologies in AD care. A systematic literature search was conducted in September 2025 across five databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, using keywords and MeSH terms related to wearable electronic devices, smart glasses, smartwatches, and Alzheimer's disease. The review protocol was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251158703). Two independent reviewers screened records and extracted data in accordance with PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Methodological quality was assessed using a validated 10-item appraisal tool. Of 1399 identified records, ten studies met the eligibility criteria. For structured synthesis, the included technologies were organized into four architectural categories: body area network-based sensor systems, augmented reality smart glasses, hybrid wearable-mobile platforms, and wearable-adjacent assistive technologies. Across studies, the included technologies were applied to physiological monitoring, mobility and gait assessment, cognitive and spatial support, and caregiver communication. Findings suggest preliminary feasibility across these domains; however, small sample sizes, heterogeneous outcome measures, and predominantly early-phase study designs limit the strength of available evidence. Current evidence suggests that wearable and wearable-adjacent technologies may contribute to multiple aspects of AD care, particularly in home-based settings. Translation into routine practice requires prospective, adequately powered studies with standardized outcome frameworks, alongside regulatory alignment and patient-caregiver co-design to address persistent usability barriers.

Why This Matters for Body-Mind Practice

This review consolidates current evidence on wearables and validation — helping practitioners and individuals make informed decisions based on the latest science.

Source

• Wearable Electronic Devices for Alzheimer's Disease Care: A Systematic Review of Applications, Benefits, and Challenges. — Health science reports