Key Features Enhancing the Usability of a Mobile Health Application Designed for People Using Wheelchairs or Scooters Full Time: A Mixed-Methods Study

Abstract

Date Presented 04/04/2025

A study on features enhancing the usability of mobile health apps designed for people using wheelchairs or scooters (WC/S) full time is described. Findings inform best practices in the development and selection of mHealth apps for clients using WC/S.

Primary Author and Speaker: Elizabeth Walker Peterson

Additional Authors and Speakers: Laura Rice, Sahel Moein

Contributing Authors: Toni Van Denend, Ziwei Li

Occupational therapists strive to prevent falls and medical complications (e.g., pressure ulcers) among people who use wheelchairs/scooters (WC/S) full-time (FT). Mobile health (mHealth) apps can support prevention efforts (1) but require careful design to ensure user engagement. Well-crafted apps may prevent abandonment (2,3). This mixed-methods study investigated features enhancing the use of/satisfaction with mHealth apps for people using WC/S FT. It involved a systematic literature review (SR) to identify features associated with mHealth app use for WC/S users and focus groups (FG) involving FT WC/S users.

SR Data Source/METHODS: 8 databases were searched to identify studies (2010-2022) on mHealth app interventions for WC/S users. Independent reviewers used Endnote and Covidence to manage articles meeting review criteria with a quality assessment of the included articles.

FG Data Source/METHODS: Adults recruited via newsletters or for a study to evaluate an app-supported fall prevention program (4) participated. Participants had spinal cord injury or multiple sclerosis, ≥ 1 fall in the last 3 years, and used WC/S ≥ 75% of the time. FGs explored views of an app designed to support the delivery of a fall prevention program (4) with an emphasis on usefulness, accessibility, appearance, and ease of use. Thematic analysis was conducted on FG transcripts.

SR & FG RESULTS: 9 articles met SR inclusion criteria. Elements enhancing the use of/satisfaction with mHealth apps for FT WC/S users derived from the SR and FGs included intuitive navigation, concise instructions, streamlined steps, and opportunities for peer/coach collaboration. Accessibility features (e.g., color contrast) and app training were deemed essential.

CONCLUSION: Simple, intuitive designs that allow for interactive learning enhance end users’ use of/satisfaction with mHealth apps for FT WC/S users.

IMPACT STATEMENT: Findings inform best practices in the selection of mHealth apps for FT WC/S users.

References

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