Smart speaker may improve mental health and blood sugar levels for seniors with type 2 diabetes

A simple smart speaker may be the latest tool to help seniors with some of the mental and physical challenges of type 2 diabetes. A new study published in JAMA Network Open reports that using an Amazon Echo Dot helped reduce mental distress in older adults with the condition, while also improving their blood sugar levels and quality of life.

Globally, 1 in 5 people aged 65 and over has type 2 diabetes, according to the International Diabetes Federation. In addition to health complications, many experience anxiety, depression or frustration. Other challenges include memory loss that makes it difficult to track medications and frailty that can limit daily activities.

High-tech helper at home

Researchers from the Pontifical Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil wanted to see if a cheap hands-free device could make life easier for senior citizens with the condition. So they set up a 12-week trial with 112 seniors with type 2 diabetes and split them into two groups.

One group was given a smart speaker that was programmed with daily health tips and educational podcasts. It also provided reminders for blood sugar tests and medication. The second group continued their normal routine, but without a smart speaker. However, they were given a health booklet and access to a website with the same health information online.

Mental and physical health boost

After 12 weeks, the researchers compared the two groups to see if the technology made a difference. One of the most significant results was the clear boost to mental health. Seniors who used the smart speaker reported a significant reduction in mental distress, meaning fewer symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. They also saw a significant boost in their quality of life.

The researchers suggest these improvements may partly be explained by trial participants feeling a connection with the technology. In fact, nearly 30% of the seniors reported “feelings of humanization” toward the speaker. And because the technology talked to them, they were more likely to take their medication on time and stick to their self-care routines.

There was also an improvement in physical health. Their HbA1c levels, which measure average blood sugar levels over two to three months, dropped by about 0.48%.

These promising results suggest that something as simple as a smart speaker could have significant benefits for seniors with type 2 diabetes, as the researchers note in their study: “This easily implemented self-management intervention could significantly enhance health outcomes in this population.”

While the results are exciting, the researchers point out that additional studies are needed. Their trial was conducted for only 12 weeks at a single center. Research with larger groups will help confirm if the benefits last over time.

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