Analyzing wearable technology resistance among older adults: exploring the impact of health consciousness and perceived self-efficacy

Purpose The study aims to examine the nuances of older adults’ resistance to wearable health-care devices and explore the role of health consciousness and perceived self-efficacy in influencing the adoption of these devices. Design/methodology/approach Drawing upon innovation resistance theory (IRT), the study extends the theoretical framework by introducing novel constructs such as threat to data ownership, threat severity, threat susceptibility, digital distrust and inertia to formulate a comprehensive conceptual model. Using a representative sample of 406 respondents, the hypothesized relationships were empirically tested through structural equation modeling and hierarchical regression moderator analysis. Findings The study identifies key barriers to the adoption of wearable health-care devices among the older adults, emphasizing factors such as inertia, usage barriers and digital distrust, followed by threats related to data ownership, severity and susceptibility. Notably, statistically insignificant evidence is found for the value barrier and image barrier, suggesting that perceived health benefits outweigh concerns related to costs, and societal perceptions play a limited role. A significant contribution lies in validating the moderating role of health consciousness and perceived self-efficacy between use intention and actual use. Originality/value This study enriches the academic literature on health-care wearables, addressing a significant gap in understanding resistances, health consciousness and perceived self-efficacy, particularly within the context of older adults in India.