How are Consumer Sleep Technology Data Being Used to Deliver Behavioral Sleep Medicine Interventions? A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND

The rapid growth of consumer sleep technology demonstrates the population's interest in measuring sleep. However, the extent to which these devices can be used in the delivery of behavioral sleep interventions is currently unknown. The objectives of this systematic review were to evaluate the use of consumer sleep technology (wearable and mobile) in behavioral sleep medicine interventions, identify gaps in the literature and potential future directions.

METHODS

We completed a scoping review of studies conducted in adult populations that used consumer sleep tracking technology to deliver sleep-related interventions.

RESULTS

Our initial search returned 4,538 articles and 14 articles met our inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results demonstrated that wearable devices are being used for two main purposes: 1. To deliver treatment for insomnia and 2. Sleep monitoring as part of overall wellness programs. Half of the articles reviewed (n = 7) used consumer sleep technology in a cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia. The majority of the studies reviewed (n = 10) were fully digital, without human intervention, and only two small studies evaluated interventions delivered with and without a sleep tracking device.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies demonstrate opportunities to utilize consumer sleep trackers in insomnia treatment and wellness programs, but most new and innovative interventions are in the early, feasibility stages. Future research is needed to determine how to leverage wearables to improve existing behavioral sleep treatments and determine how this technology can engage patients and reduce barriers to behavioral sleep medicine interventions.