Exploring the Feasibility of a 5-Week mHealth Intervention to Enhance Physical Activity and an Active, Healthy Lifestyle in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Daniels Kim , Vonck Sharona , Robijns Jolien , Quadflieg Kirsten , Bergs Jochen , Spooren Annemie , Hansen Dominique , Bonnechère Bruno 
Published: December 2024

Background

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

Objective

The main objective of this feasibility study was to assess the feasibility, usability, and acceptability of the More In Action (MIA) app, designed to promote PA among older adults. MIA offers 7 features: personalized tips, PA literacy, guided peer workouts, a community calendar, a personal activity diary, a progression monitor, and a chatbot.

Methods

Our study used a mixed methods approach to evaluate the MIA app’s acceptability, feasibility, and usability. First, a think-aloud method was used to provide immediate feedback during initial app use. Participants then integrated the app into their daily activities for 5 weeks. Behavioral patterns such as user session duration, feature use frequency, and navigation paths were analyzed, focusing on engagement metrics and user interactions. User satisfaction was assessed using the System Usability Scale, Net Promoter Score, and Customer Satisfaction Score. Qualitative data from focus groups conducted after the 5-week intervention helped gather insights into user experiences. Participants were recruited using a combination of web-based and offline strategies, including social media outreach, newspaper advertisements, and presentations at older adult organizations and local community services. Our target group consisted of native Dutch-speaking older adults aged >65 years who were not affected by severe illnesses. Initial assessments and focus groups were conducted in person, whereas the intervention itself was web based.

Results

The study involved 30 participants with an average age of 70.3 (SD 4.8) years, of whom 57% (17/30) were female. The app received positive ratings, with a System Usability Scale score of 77.4 and a Customer Satisfaction Score of 86.6%. Analysis showed general satisfaction with the app’s workout videos, which were used in 585 sessions with a median duration of 14 (IQR 0-34) minutes per day. The Net Promoter Score was 33.34, indicating a good level of customer loyalty. Qualitative feedback highlighted the need for improvements in navigation, content relevance, and social engagement features, with suggestions for better calendar visibility, workout customization, and enhanced social features. Overall, the app demonstrated high usability and satisfaction, with near-daily engagement from participants.

Conclusions

The MIA app shows significant potential for promoting PA among older adults, evidenced by its high usability and satisfaction scores. Participants engaged with the app nearly daily, particularly appreciating the workout videos and educational content. Future enhancements should focus on better calendar visibility, workout customization, and integrating social networking features to foster community and support. In addition, incorporating wearable device integration and predictive analytics could provide real-time health data, optimizing activity recommendations and health monitoring. These enhancements will ensure that the app remains user-friendly, relevant, and sustainable, promoting sustained PA and healthy behaviors among older adults.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05650515; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05650515