JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Maintaining exercise is essential for healthy aging but difficult to sustain. EngAGE is a socially motivated exercise program delivered over a voice-activated device that targets older adult (OA)-care partner (CP) dyads.

Objective:

This 10-week pilot study aimed to assess EngAGE feasibility and utilization, obtain user experience feedback, and estimate potential impact on function.

Methods:

Ten OAs ≥65 years were recruited from an independent living residence together with their self-identified CPs. EngAGE delivered NIA Go4Life exercises to OAs daily, while CPs received progress reports and prompts to send encouraging messages which were read aloud by the device to the OA. OA utilization was tracked and physical function was assessed at baseline and follow-up. Follow-up focus group and interview data provided qualitative feedback.

Results:

On average, participants completed 393.7 (median=431) individual exercises without injury and used EngAGE on 41 days (median: 51). Qualitative results revealed perceived benefits, favored program features, and areas for improvement. Mean grip strength increased by 1.3 kg (p=0.34) and 4/10 improved by a minimal clinically important difference (MCID). Five-repeated chair stands time reduced by 2.3 seconds (p=0.02) and 3/9 improved by a MCID.

Conclusions:

We present the iterative, participatory design methodology for a new, voice-activated device application customized to older adult users which may serve as a guide to other technology development for older adults. In our final participatory design phase, our pilot study served to further refine the application and to inform a larger trial testing EngAGE’s impact on functional outcomes, a necessary step for developing evidence-based technology tools. Clinical Trial: NA