JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Mobile applications (apps) usage has promoted physical activity levels. Recently, with an increasing number of older adults accessing the internet, app-based interventions may be feasible in older populations. Peer support-based interventions have become a common method for promoting health-related behavior change. To our knowledge, the feasibility of using digital peer support applications (DPSAs) to increase physical activity among older adults and its impact on physical activity and physical function has not been investigated.

Objective:

The study aimed to assess the feasibility of using the DPSA in older adults, and to assess changes in physical activity, and physical function in DPSA users.

Methods:

We conducted a non-randomized, controlled trial of older adults aged ≥65 years. We recruited participants for two different 12-week programs designed to increase physical activity. Participants could choose between an intervention group (app program and exercise instruction) or a control group (exercise instruction only). The intervention group used DPSA after receiving two face-to-face lectures on its use. The participants were characterized using questionnaires, accelerometers, and physical function assessments. The feasibility of the DPSA was assessed using retention and adherence rates. Physical activity was assessed using accelerometers to measure the daily step count, light intensity physical activity, moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA), and sedentary behavior, and physical function was assessed using grip strength and the 30-s chair-stand test.

Results:

The participants in the intervention group were more frequent users of apps, more familiar with information and communication technology, and had a higher baseline physical activity level. The retention rate and adherence rate for the DPSA intervention were 87.8% and 87.7%, respectively, indicating good feasibility. Participants in the intervention group increased their number of steps by at least 1,000 steps and their MVPA by at least 10 minutes using the DPSA. There was a significant difference in the interaction between groups and intervention time-points in the daily step count and MVPA (step count: P=.037, amount of MVPA : P=.034). The DPSA increased physical activity, especially in older adults with low baseline physical activity levels. There were no significant changes in sedentary behavior or physical function.

Conclusions:

Using the DPSA to promote physical activity in older adults is feasible, but its effects on physical activity and physical function are limited. The effects of DPSA on step count, physical activity, and physical function in older adults with low baseline physical activity should be investigated using randomized controlled trials. Clinical Trial: University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN000050618)