From a cardiologist’s perspective, the HUAWEI WATCH 5 could be a genuinely meaningful Christmas gift for older adults. It helps support all six key body systems by encouraging movement, monitoring heart rate and rhythm, tracking sleep, breathing and stress, and gently reminding users to stay active and hydrated. It’s not intended to replace any medical diagnosis or treatment, but acts as a smart daily companion that can boost safety, independence and overall wellbeing.

“It is more than just a sophisticated device, it is a discreet personal health companion designed to facilitate advanced health monitoring for older people and reassure their families.”

b. Electrocardiogram (ECG): In addition to providing a quality ECG recording, the watch also analyses the data. You can even add any symptoms you notice, like dizziness, chest pain etc. and these are accounted for by the app. By simply holding the side electrode, it can detect signs of atrial fibrillation in real time and send timely alerts. For older adults, who have a higher risk of these rhythm problems, such information may provide an opportunity to seek treatment and prevention from a medical professional [4]. Of course, it does not replace the need for regular check-ups with a healthcare professional, but it can be useful in indicating health concerns in a personal setting.

c. High-Quality Sleep Analysis: Restorative sleep is fundamental for health and recovery. HUAWEI WATCH 5 includes a professional-grade sleep monitor that tracks health indicators and can even detect abnormal breathing patterns during sleep. As we age, our sleep patterns change; we often sleep fewer hours and with more interruptions. Sleep quality is a source of worry for many older adults. The automatic recording of sleep quantity and quality allows these sensations to be quantified and aids in the search for solutions. This proactive tracking ensures that a key aspect of restorative health is never overlooked.

By analyzing over 60 health indicators, the Health Glance function, which can be activated by the X-TAP sensor on the side of the watch, offers an overview of the individual's general well-being. For the senior user, this translates to having a personal wellness examination right on the wrist, offering an all-round view of their well-being. The X-TAP sensor is also a pulse oximeter measuring blood oxygen (SpO2) from the fingertip.

“HUAWEI WATCH 5's cutting-edge technology offers fast and accurate health tracking, converting complex health data into useful, easy-to-understand information.”

• Intuitive Interface: The watch features an optimized interface with color-coded apps, streamlined cards, and fluid transitions, making navigation easy even for those less familiar with modern technology. The ability to receive and make Bluetooth calls directly from the wrist adds a layer of safety and convenience, ensuring communication is always within reach. HUAWEI WATCH 5 also supports eSIM services in some regions.

• User-Friendly: The system is easy to use and includes easily customisable display elements, making it accessible even for those with vision problems.

References

1. Tiwari R et al. (2021): Analysis of Heart Rate Variability and Implication of Different Factors on Heart Rate Variability.
2. United Nations (2015): Transforming our world: the 2030 agenda for sustainable development.
3. Moore K. et al. (2021): Older Adults' Experiences With Using Wearable Devices: Qualitative Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis.
4. Lee JP et al. (2019): Clinical Relevance of Home Monitoring of Vital Signs and Blood Glucose Levels: A Narrative.
5. WHO (2023): Promoting physical activity for older people: a toolkit for action.

The author of this article is Dr. Vicente Bertomeu-Gonzalez. The views expressed are his own.
The information is to be used as general information only, and is not to be taken as advice with respect to any individual situation and cannot be relied upon as such. A healthcare provider should be consulted when attempting to diagnose a condition or when determining the best course of action for any health-related concern.

Medical disclaimer: The ECG feature is intended to be used by people aged 18 years and over, but is not intended to replace any medical diagnosis or treatment. Data obtained during the use of this device and feature is for personal reference only. Before using the device, please carefully read the Quick Start Guide, Wearing Guide, and Instruction for Use.

Due to national restrictions on obtaining approval / registration as a medical device, the ECG feature only works on watches and smartphones purchased in countries where the service is available.

Supported smartphones: Mobile phones with Android 6.0 or compatibles, HarmonyOS 2.0 or compatibles, or iOS 12.0 or compatibles. The Huawei Health app version on your mobile phone must be 11.0 or compatibles. Please make sure that your wearable device and phone are running the latest versions before using ECG.

The Health Glance, sleep monitoring, SpO2, heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), blood oxygen features are not a medical device, and therefore its monitoring data and results are for reference only and should not be used as a basis for medical diagnosis or treatment.

eSIM only supported in certain countries and regions. For details about service availability and associated charges, please consult your local carrier.