Evaluating the impact of wearable activity trackers on functional capacity and quality of life in patients with chronic heart failure: a prospective pilot study

Background Despite substantial therapeutic advancements in heart failure (HF) management, many patients experience limited functional capacity and reduced quality of life (QoL). Emerging technologies such as wearable activity trackers (WATs) may encourage regular physical activity and improve clinical outcomes in this population. Purpose We aimed to assess whether WAT use in patients with chronic HF (NYHA II–III, EF 30–45%) could enhance exercise capacity, QoL, and reduce hospitalization rates over a 6-month period. Methods In a single-center, prospective design, 50 patients were randomized into two groups: Wearable Group (n=25) and Control Group (n=25). The Wearable Group received WATs with daily step count monitoring and monthly feedback sessions. The Control Group continued standard HF therapy without WAT support. Functional status was measured by the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) and daily step counts. QoL was evaluated using the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire (MLHFQ). NT-proBNP levels, hospital admissions, and mortality were documented at baseline and at 6-month follow-up. Results After 6 months, the Wearable Group showed a significant improvement in 6MWT distance (+75±18 m vs. +20±15 m in Controls; p=0.001) and daily step counts (+1,450 vs. +250; p<0.001). MLHFQ scores decreased by 16 points in Wearable users, compared to 6 points in Controls (p<0.001). NT-proBNP levels declined more substantially in the Wearable Group (p=0.010). Hospital admissions were 12% vs. 32% (p=0.045), and no mortality was observed in Wearable users versus 8% in Controls (p=0.150). Conclusion Wearable activity tracking appears to significantly enhance functional capacity and QoL, while reducing hospitalizations in patients with chronic HF. Larger multi-center trials and extended follow-up are warranted to confirm these preliminary findings.