Leaving a rehabilitation center typically marks the beginning of a critical phase in addiction recovery. Continuous support and monitoring are needed during this period to help prevent relapse. Individuals are also much more likely to remain on the path to recovery with help from family, friends, clinical professionals, and/or their community. Fortunately, advancements in wearable technology have introduced new ways to offer better patient care during this vulnerable time.
What is Wearable Technology?
Wearable technology refers to electronic devices that just about anyone can wear. These devices are designed to collect data about the user’s health and activity levels. Examples of wearable technology include smartwatches and fitness trackers. Wearable technology in healthcare continues to grow in popularity, and it’s especially effective in addiction relapse prevention.
Benefits of Wearable Technology for Addiction Treatment
Wearable technologies offer a wide range of benefits for anyone in addiction recovery. Using this technology is critical to build healthy habits and makes it easier to avoid addiction cravings. Access to real-time data provides much-needed insight into creating personalized care and support for anyone going through addiction treatment.
Here are the primary benefits of incorporating wearable technology:
Connects Patients with Care Providers
One key benefit of wearable technology in healthcare is its ability to bridge the gap between patients and care providers. Through remote patient monitoring devices, clinicians can receive updates on a patient’s health status, activity levels, and medication adherence. Gaining this level of connection allows for timely addiction interventions and support, which are crucial aspects for individuals in addiction recovery.
Remote Patient Monitoring
Remote monitoring systems with wearable technologies can track physiological data, such as heart rate and activity levels. These devices can play a significant role in monitoring the health of anyone who has recently left an addiction treatment facility. Access to this data in real-time can help identify potential signs of relapse or other health concerns requiring immediate attention.
Tracks Sleep & Nutrition
Building healthy habits is essential for sustained addiction recovery. Wearable technology offers sleep-tracking capabilities and can provide insights into sleep patterns as well as quality of sleep. Adequate sleep is necessary for physical and emotional well-being, which makes it easier for individuals to manage stress and addiction cravings. Similarly, some wearable devices can help monitor nutrition, encouraging a balanced diet and recovery support.
Stress Signals & Vital Metrics
Stress is often a significant trigger for addiction relapse. Wearable technology can detect changes in stress levels and vital metrics with the help of real-time data. Identifying these stress signals early can often help with intervention before it’s too late. Remote patient monitoring devices are an excellent way to stay proactive with addiction treatment.
Improve Communication and Support
Addiction recovery is often marked by moments of isolation and uncertainty. Wearable technology can improve communication between recovering individuals and their support network, including family, friends, and peer support groups. These devices can reinforce recovery efforts and reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.
Encourages Self-Management
Wearable technologies are crucial for empowering individuals to take control of their recovery process. Through detailed tracking and personalized feedback, these devices encourage the development of self-management skills. A remote monitoring system may motivate individuals to set goals for physical activity, mental health, and overall wellness.
Closing Thoughts About Wearable Technology and Addiction Treatment
Wearable technologies are an excellent means for helping anyone overcome addiction. Access to remote monitoring devices offers a variety of benefits, such as tracking sleep and nutrition, improving communication, monitoring stress signals, and more. The industry will continue to evolve as wearable technology continues to play a vital role in addiction recovery.