JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

A growing body of evidence suggests significant cognitive and social health benefits can be derived from digital storytelling for older adults with cognitive impairment. Digital storytelling applications offer the potential to serve as an on-demand, easy-to-access platform for enhancing cognitive abilities and promoting social well-being. Yet, while the quantity of such apps available on the market has increased, there is a pertinent gap in research investigating their quality.

Objective:

The objective of this study is to conduct a systematic review of digital storytelling apps available in the Chinese market, evaluating them in accordance with the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS). The goal is to identify key features and evaluate the overall quality of these apps in the context of cognitively-impaired users, filling an important research gap.

Methods:

A systematic search was conducted in both the Google Play Store and iTunes Store, using English and Chinese languages. Apps were chosen according to specific criteria that included features, including (but not limited to) memory capture, story saving, cue-based reminiscing, and the ability to share stories or memories with others. The Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) was employed by three individual researchers to independently assess app quality across a number of domains, such as engagement, functionality, aesthetics, and information quality, for both Android and iOS applications.

Results:

From an initial screening of 297 apps, only 9 met the criteria for detailed evaluation using MARS. The reviewed apps featured ‘Capture Memory’, ‘Save’, ‘Reminisce’ and ‘Share’ functions, which are critical in supporting cognitive functions and enhancing user engagement. The analysis revealed notable patterns in platform diversity and geographic distribution of developers, with apps available on both iOS and Android and developers concentrated in China and the USA. ‘Memoirs of Life’ and ‘Memorize: Diaries, Memories, Notes, Ideas, Timelines, Categories’ had the highest mean MARS scores of 3.35, reflecting strong engagement, functionality, and information quality. However, the overall mean score across all apps was only 3.03, reflecting considerable variation, particularly in information quality. User feedback also varied widely, with apps like ‘FamilySearch’ receiving extensive positive reviews and a high volume of comments (5,361 comments across platforms), while others, such as ‘Grand Storyteller’ and ‘PWI Storyteller’ exhibited minimal user engagement. This variability in user feedback underscores the need for continuous improvement and user-centered design, especially the need for improvements in information quality and content accuracy, to enhance the effectiveness of digital storytelling applications to better meet the needs of cognitively-impaired users.

Conclusions:

The systematic search and evaluation highlight the diverse capabilities yet variable quality of digital storytelling apps available within the Chinese market, reflecting user experiences, satisfaction levels, and ultimately, efficacy in supporting cognitively-impaired users. While some apps excel in engagement and functionality, others need significant improvements in information quality and user interface design to better serve those with cognitive impairments. Future research is recommended to investigate regional limitations, as well as features which would result in more inclusive and effective digital storytelling applications. Clinical Trial: N/A