Exergaming Platform for Older Adults Residing in Long-Term Care Homes: User-Centered Design, Development, and...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Older adults in long-term care (LTC) face physical inactivity due to comorbidities, leading to cognitive and functional decline.
• Existing exergaming systems are often unsuitable for LTC residents due to accessibility and safety concerns.
• Exergaming offers potential for engaging older adults in physical activity and social interaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and develop a novel, user-centered, evidence-based exergame system (MouvMat) for older adults in LTC.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to implementing the MouvMat in LTC settings based on staff feedback.

Main Methods:

• A user-centered design (UCD) process involving 4 rounds of usability testing over 18 months.
• Development and refinement of the MouvMat based on end-user input, expert evidence, and iterative testing.
• Evaluation using semistructured interviews and validated scales (e.g., System Usability Scale, Physical Activity Enjoyment Scale).

Main Results:

• 28 participants (13 residents, 15 staff/family) contributed to the UCD process.
• Acceptability, usability, and enjoyment scores for MouvMat showed an upward trend across usability testing rounds.
• Qualitative data revealed residents enjoyed the prototype and appreciated increased physical activity; staff noted its potential for autonomous activity.

Conclusions:

• A user-centered design approach successfully created the MouvMat, an exergame system tailored to the diverse needs of LTC residents.
• The MouvMat addresses hardware, motivational, and environmental factors, meeting varied resident requirements.
• Further research via multisite randomized controlled trials is recommended to confirm MouvMat's efficacy in enhancing physical and cognitive health.