JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Advancements in smartphone technology have paved the way for innovative interventions aimed at promoting physical activity (PA).

Objective:

The main objective of this feasibility study is to thoroughly assess the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of the MIA, a specifically developed app, in promoting PA among healthy older adults.

Methods:

Our study utilized a mixed methods approach to evaluate the MIA app’s acceptability, feasibility, and usability. First, a "think-aloud" method was used to provided immediate feedback during initial app use. Participants then integrated the app into their daily activities for five weeks. Behavioral patterns, such as user session duration, feature usage frequency, and navigation paths were analyzed, focusing on engagement metrics and user interactions. User satisfaction was assessed using the System Usability Scale (SUS), User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ), Net Promoter Score (NPS) and the Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT). Qualitative data from focus groups, performed after the five-week intervention, helped gather insights into user experiences. Recruitment targeted healthy, native Dutch-speaking older adults over 65 without severe illnesses.

Results:

The study involved 30 participants. The app received positive ratings, with a sustainable usability scale of 77.4 and a customer satisfaction score of 86.6%. Analysis showed general satisfaction with the app’s workout videos and broad acceptance of its content. Qualitative feedback suggested improvements in navigation and content relevance.

Conclusions:

Mobile health apps offer promise for promoting PA in older adults. Tailoring technology that suits individual needs is crucial to ensure user-friendly, relevant, sustainable, and agile solutions. Future enhancements should focus on personalization and integration with wearable devices to provide real-time health data, which can optimize activity recommendations and health monitoring. Furthermore, incorporating robust social networking features and predictive analytics could enhance user engagement. Clinical Trial: The study was preregistered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05650515).