The Effect of Wearable Technologies on Disease Management and Psychosocial Adaptation in Hemodialysis Patients: A Systematic Review

English (OpenAlex)

BACKGROUND: Hemodialysis is a life-sustaining treatment for individuals with kidney failure; however, it is associated with substantial physical and psychosocial challenges that can negatively affect quality of life and self-management. Wearable health technologies have gained increasing attention as tools for continuous monitoring of physiological and behavioral indicators, with potential relevance for disease management and psychosocial adaptation in hemodialysis care. OBJECTIVES: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the impact of wearable technologies on disease management and psychosocial adaptation among individuals receiving hemodialysis. DESIGN: Systematic review. PARTICIPANTS: Adults receiving maintenance hemodialysis. MEASUREMENTS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across five electronic databases. Study selection and screening were performed independently by two reviewers using a standardized review management system, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. RESULTS: Following screening and eligibility assessment, eight studies were included in the review, comprising three randomized controlled trials, two cohort studies, two cross-sectional studies, and one quasi-experimental study. Wearable technologies were primarily used to monitor physical activity, electrolyte imbalance, fluid status, and oxygen saturation. Across the included studies, wearable-based applications were associated with improved monitoring capabilities and showed potential benefits for self-management behaviors and selected psychosocial outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Wearable technologies may serve as supportive tools for monitoring disease-related parameters and promoting self-management among individuals receiving hemodialysis. However, the current evidence remains limited and heterogeneous, highlighting the need for further high-quality studies to clarify their clinical and psychosocial impact.