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Middle-aged women's preferred theory-based features in mobile physical activity applications
Diane K Ehlers1, Jennifer L Huberty
1School of Nutrition & Health Promotion, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ.
Journal of Physical Activity & Health
|December 26, 2013
Summary
Middle-aged women prefer mobile apps with features for self-regulating physical activity (PA) and enhancing technology use. Social interaction and gamification elements are also desired for sustained engagement.
Area of Science:
- Behavioral science
- Health technology
- Mobile health (mHealth)
Background:
- Understanding middle-aged women's preferences for physical activity (PA) mobile applications is crucial for effective health promotion.
- Theory-based features can enhance user engagement and adherence to physical activity programs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify preferred theory-based behavioral and technological features for a mobile physical activity (PA) application for middle-aged women.
- To inform the design of mHealth interventions tailored to this demographic.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was administered to 120 women aged 30-64 years.
- Survey development integrated principles from Social Cognitive Theory and the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology.
- Quantitative (frequencies) and qualitative (content analysis) methods were used to analyze feature preferences.
Main Results:
- Most preferred behavioral features included physical activity (PA) tracking, goal-setting, and progress monitoring for self-regulation.
- Technological features enhancing perceived effort expectancy and playfulness were highly favored.
- A significant number of women desired social interaction and competitive elements within the application.
Conclusions:
- Mobile PA applications for middle-aged women should incorporate theory-based self-regulation features and design elements that boost perceived effort expectancy and playfulness.
- Social and gamified features, such as interaction and competition, may increase user attractiveness and adherence.
- Interdisciplinary collaboration among experts in behavior change, technology adoption, and software development is recommended for optimal application design.
