Older adults' perceptions of using iPads for improving fruit and vegetable intake: an exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Fruit and vegetable (FV) consumption is vital for older adults' health.
• Traditional interventions for FV intake are resource-intensive.
• iPad-based interventions offer potential but require understanding user perceptions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore older adults' perceptions and use of iPads for enhancing FV consumption.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to using iPads for dietary improvement in older adults.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study involving five focus groups with 22 older adult participants.
• Participants received guided iPad instruction and explored FV-related applications.
• Grounded theory and constant comparative analysis of interview data.

Main Results:

• Initial perceptions included limited knowledge, age-appropriateness concerns, and cost barriers.
• Post-instruction, participants found touchscreens easier than mice, noted practice needs, and valued portability.
• Ease of learning varied, with practice and instruction reducing technophobia.

Conclusions:

• Older adults can adapt to using iPads for FV consumption with appropriate support.
• Future mobile health interventions should incorporate user-suggested features like cost-effective FV location, personalized recipes, and health tracking.
• Findings inform the development of eHealth strategies to boost FV intake in older populations.