Smartwatch Training and Digital Health Literacy for Older Adults in Bambu Apus Urban Village, Cipayung, East Jakarta

Abstract

The increasing number of older adults in Indonesia highlights the need for accessible and practical approaches to support healthy ageing and independent health management. Older adults may require regular monitoring of health indicators, while the growing availability of wearable technology provides opportunities to strengthen their digital health literacy. This community service program aimed to improve the knowledge and practical skills of older adults in using smartwatches for basic health monitoring in Bambu Apus Urban Village, Cipayung, East Jakarta. The program employed a participatory community-based approach involving health education, smartwatch training, demonstrations, hands-on practice, and mentoring. Participants were introduced to basic smartwatch functions, including device operation, activity monitoring, heart rate measurement, sleep tracking, and interpretation of selected health-related information. Family members were also involved to provide continued assistance in the use of wearable technology. The program evaluation was conducted through pre-test and post-test assessments, observation, and participant feedback. The results indicated improvements in participants' understanding of smartwatch functions, confidence in operating the devices, and awareness of the potential role of digital technology in supporting personal health monitoring. Family involvement also strengthened participants' ability to use the devices independently. The program demonstrates that practical smartwatch training can contribute to digital health literacy and support community-based healthy ageing initiatives.