Strategies for Supporting Older Adults in Engaging with mHealth Interventions for Physical Activity: A Rapid Review (Preprint)
Authors: Walters Ronie , Ozakinci Gozde 
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

By 2035, the UK is projected to have over 21% of the population aged 65 and above, prompting a re-evaluation of old-age support. The aging population challenges traditional dependency models, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthy behaviours and social support. Being physically active in older age has been shown to reduce the need for support in older populations. While digital behaviour interventions can be effective, older adults may lag in digital skills and technology use.

OBJECTIVE

The primary aim of this rapid review is to identify strategies to support older adults to engage with a digital app for becoming more physically active.

METHODS

PubMed was searched for full text articles published in peer reviewed journals focused on the experiences of older adults (aged 50 or over) using smartphones. Eligible papers included both qualitative and quantitative studies (of any design) reporting on primary data. Quality appraisal utilized Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklists. A narrative synthesis approach combined evidence using a deductive approach based on the COM-B logic model and Theoretical Domains Framework.

RESULTS

135 unique papers were screened and 27 retrieved for full text evaluation. 7 qualitative and 2 quantitative papers were included in the rapid review with 427 participants (range 9 – 138) aged 50 – 92. 94 findings were aggregated into 14 categories and then 6 themes which corresponded with all aspects of the COM-B model of behaviour change. The findings highlight actionable points for developers, utilizing the COM-B model of behaviour change.
Results showed that motivation, influenced by both automatic and reflective factors, is crucial, with concerns like fear of being scammed, and anxiety about doing something wrong and breaking the device, addressed through clear training and support. Opportunity involves physical access and social support, emphasizing the need for affordability, multi-platform options, and a clear referral pathway to make technology accessible. Leveraging existing trusted relationships such as with support organisations and healthcare professionals. is vital, emphasizing ongoing support. Capability is hindered by a lack of understanding of technology benefits and usage. Developers are advised to implement staged programs and involve older adults in development to address psychological and physical capability challenges, considering decreased sensory abilities and manual dexterity.

CONCLUSIONS

The review integrates findings from various areas like m-health, digital apps, digital literacy, and computer training, providing actionable recommendations for app developers working with older adults. However, limitations include reliance on a single database (PubMed) and the focus on older adults with specific health conditions, potentially differing from healthy older adults. Despite these limitations, the findings reveal a high degree of consensus across categories and themes.

CLINICALTRIAL

Not applicable.