Wearable Health Technology to Understand Traditional Activities in Dokis First Nation during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Canada’s history of European colonization-imposed measures on the Indigenous peoples of Canada has created considerable discrepancies in this population’s health and wellness. Community leaders in Dokis First Nation and College Boreal researchers explored the use of wearable digital health technology during harvesting activities. Fitbit watches were worn by community members during traditional activities, introducing 2 null hypotheses: a) the canoe trip does not increase physical activity, b) the hide preparation activity does not increase physical activity. Each activity included 6 participants from Dokis First Nation and, based on the results, the canoe trip significantly increased their physical activity levels while the hide preparation did not increase their physical activity levels significantly. The study can also be used as an example of how Canadian Colleges and its researchers can be mobilized on behalf of First Nation leaders assisting their communities and its membership.

Keywords

• First Nation, Aboriginal Peoples of Canada, Traditional Physical Activity, Wearable Health Tracking Technology, Canadian Colleges