Abstract
BACKGROUND: Digital health applications and AI-supported wearables may benefit people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), yet fluctuating cognitive and physical symptoms could shape adoption in ways not fully captured by traditional acceptance models. OBJECTIVE: To identify determinants of digital health acceptance in MS, focusing on emotional factors and disease-related moderators, and to compare these patterns with individuals living with other chronic conditions. METHODS: An online survey (Winter 2024/2025) assessed Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) constructs in MS patients (n = 64) and a comparison group (n = 14). Measures included Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEOU), Behavioral Intention (BI), Social Influence (SI), Trust in Technology (TT), Technological Anxiety (TA), and self-reported wearable/app use. RESULTS: Groups did not differ significantly in PU, PEOU, BI, or SI (all p > .05), though between-group comparisons should be interpreted cautiously given the small comparison group size (n = 14). However, MS participants reported substantially lower regular wearable use [χ (2)(2) = 7.83, p = .020]. TT (β = .52, p < .001) and TA (β = -.38, p < .001) were the strongest predictors of BI, whereas PU and PEOU contributed minimally. Symptom severity moderated acceptance pathways, weakening PEOU effects and amplifying TA effects. CONCLUSION: Findings reveal an intention-behavior gap in MS and show that emotional and capability-related factors outweigh cognitive predictors. We outline foundational elements of an Extended Disease-Specific Technology Acceptance Model for MS integrating trust, anxiety, and symptom burden. Digital health tools for MS should prioritize trust-building and anxiety-reducing design features.