Co-Creating a Digital Resource to Support Smartwatch Use in COPD Self-Management: An Inclusive and Pragmatic Participatory Approach.

Wearable technologies, such as smartwatches, are increasingly used by people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) for health monitoring and self-management. However, there is limited evidence-informed guidance available to help patients and healthcare practitioners use these tools effectively in everyday life.

Objectives

This study aimed to co-create a digital resource for people with COPD and healthcare practitioners to support the use of smartwatches for self-management.

Methods

A participatory co-creation methodology was used, based on the Three Co's Framework (co-define, co-design, co-refine). Participants included people with COPD, carers, family, or friends of people with COPD; healthcare practitioners; and researchers who attended workshops and individual think-aloud interviews to develop a website and video resource. The resource was refined based on real-time feedback. Data were analysed using rapid qualitative analysis.

Results

Twenty-one participants engaged and identified key informational needs, including understanding smartwatch features, interpreting health data, and setting personalised goals. The co-created website and video resource were positively received. Participants valued the inclusion of real-life experiences and practical guidance tailored to both patients and healthcare practitioners.

Conclusions

This study presents the first co-created resource for COPD and healthcare practitioners on using smartwatches. The co-creation process was successfully delivered online and face-to-face, demonstrating a robust, inclusive approach to managing multiple stakeholders. The resource offers practical value for patients and practitioners and contributes to the growing field of remote interventions for chronic respiratory conditions. Future research is needed to evaluate its effectiveness.