Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 28, 2025
Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
A Game-Based, Physical Activity Coaching Application for Older Adults: Design Approach and User Experience in Daily
Monique Tabak1,2, Frederiek de Vette1, Hylke van Dijk3
1Biomedical Signals and Systems, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
In this article, we describe the design approach of a game-based, mobile coaching application for older adults (65-75 years) that aimed to stimulate physical activity (PA) in daily life. We evaluated older adults' experiences using this application compared with a standard coaching application in terms of engagement, motivation to be physically active, and in relation to the applied design features. An iterative design approach was followed to develop the game-based coaching application, called WordFit. Step count data (FitBit) were used for the crossword-inspired game. The standard coaching application (the ActivityCoach) displayed FitBit data. Participants were asked to use the ActivityCoach for 1 week first and then use WordFit for up to 3 weeks. Engagement was determined by logging actual use and motivation for PA by a daily in-app motivation question and step count data. Afterward, a semistructured interview was conducted. Twenty older adults participated (71.0 ± 5.0 years). Of these, 16/20 actively used the ActivityCoach (13.1 ± 10.0 days) and 8/20 used WordFit (14.8 ± 9.5 days). For the latter, mean PA before WordFit use was 5852 ± 3652 steps/day, while mean PA using WordFit was 7236 ± 3335 steps/day. The interviews (n = 12) showed that step data and feedback on performance through the ActivityCoach/FitBit were prominent motivators for PA. WordFit was generally played as a stand-alone brain trainer. Cognitive challenge, in-game challenges, and challenges through emergent gameplay were important for engagement to use the game. Older adults did not play WordFit together. WordFit was not seen as a tool to help improve PA behavior. Enjoyment of the game concept could be improved by providing older adults with new and nontraditional gaming concepts before assessing game preferences. Follow-up studies should be conducted in a target group that is known for low adherence rates and that can benefit from the intervention provided.
