JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

: To promote healthy ageing in the digital age, the support of technological devices such as mobile health applications addressing healthy dietary styles and physical activity seems promising. Previous research indicates a so-called digital divide, i.e. a lower likelihood of older adults to use technological tools compared to younger ones. Hence, it is vital to investigate older adults’ acceptance of nutrition and fitness apps to gain a deeper understanding of influencing factors shaping this specific target group’s usage behaviour.

Objective:

The aim of this systematic mixed studies review was to provide an integrative overview on the current state of research regarding the question in how far older adults accept mobile nutrition and fitness apps, and what influencing factors and social determinants shape their acceptance.

Methods:

The review process followed the PRISMA guidelines. The databases Medline and Embase as well as reference lists were systematically searched. Study quality was assessed utilizing the MMAT as well as AXIS appraisal tools. Data of the included studies were extracted using a piloted form and thereupon narratively synthesized, involving thematic analysis.

Results:

Of 2934 articles screened, six studies could be identified – five quantitative, cross-sectional ones and one longitudinal qualitative (case) study. The studies were considerably heterogeneous regarding their study and population foci. While cross-study comparability was limited, the synthesized evidence showed a certain degree of congruence: Among others, study findings indicated that older adults – as in comparison to younger ones – were (significantly) less likely to use nutrition and fitness apps, found them less useful and less easy to use. Moreover, older adults’ acceptance towards fitness apps appeared to be somewhat more pronounced compared to nutrition apps. Findings regarding contextual factors and social determinants were scarce and inconsistent (e.g. regarding gender differences). Resulting from the qualitative study, external motivation to app usage increased participants’ interest in fitness apps.

Conclusions:

Although the existing body of knowledge proved to be sparse, the synthesized findings indicate a relatively low acceptance of nutrition and fitness apps among older adults. This is consistent with previous findings on the digital divide regarding general mobile technology usage. Furthermore, this review demonstrates the state of research on app acceptance in the specific target group of older adults and highlights the need of further (longitudinal) research to illuminate nutrition and fitness app acceptance in greater depth as well as breadth. Ultimately, this may inform future development of such mobile applications to meet the target group’s heterogeneous demands and needs, facilitate an effective implementation of mobile apps, and thus support the promotion of healthy dieting and physical activity in older populations. Clinical Trial: n.a.