KPU-Science World talk explores technology applications for wellness
When it comes to wellness, well there are a lot of apps for that.
It’s easy to recognize the value of being healthy, yet many people struggle to follow through with what is best for their minds and bodies.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) nursing faculty Leeann Waddington and biology faculty Dr. Karen Davison will explore how apps can support a journey to wellness on May 30 in the final KPU-Science World Speaker Series talk for 2017/18.
“While people have a general awareness of the things that contribute to health such as nutrition, exercise, stress management and so on, most of us struggle to do the right things on a consistent basis,” said Waddington. “Technology has begun to provide a selection of apps that are developed using health behaviour change models rather than just a gimmick.”
The speakers will delve into the science of human behaviour, nutrition, physical activity and sleep that optimizes physical and mental functioning. They will explore the variety of electronic tools available to support healthy lifestyles.
Davison’s research examines the relationship between nutrition and mental health. In particular, she investigates novel interventions, such as mobile applications and virtual environments that can contribute to health. Smartphone and other mobile technology have improved to the point where health apps can provide behavioural interventions, which in turn can help different people.
“Using apps to improve health outcomes such as nutrition and physical activity show promise,” said Davison. “However, some gaps in knowledge about their effectiveness exist and people need to be able to evaluate what tools will work best for them.”
KPU-Science World Speaker Series
What's App with Your Health? Exploring Technology Applications for Your Wellness
WHEN: Wednesday, May 30, 2018, 6-8:30 p.m.
WHERE: Science World at TELUS World of Science (1455 Quebec St, Vancouver)
INFO: This talk is free and open to the public. To register, visit kpu.ca/scienceworld. Talks begins at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. for a set of interactive, hands-on activities and scientific demonstrations related to the presentation.
This speaker series is a partnership between KPU and Science World that supports the expansion of science in our communities. This free public series works to engage, entertain and educate guests with fascinating insights into the world of science. This is the last talk for the 2017/18 academic year. The 2018/19 KPU-Science World Speaker Series will kick off later this summer.