A Coach-Supported mHealth Lifestyle Intervention to Reduce Dementia Risk in Persons With Low Socioeconomic Status or...

The prevalence and incidence of dementia are higher in migrants and those with low socioeconomic status (SES). Mobile health (mHealth) interventions offer a potentially scalable way to reduce dementia risk via risk factor modification.

We co-designed the MIND-PRO app-an mHealth intervention targeting dementia risk factors through self-managed lifestyle changes and remote coaching-specifically designed for Dutch individuals with low SES and those with Turkish or South Asian Surinamese migration backgrounds. We focused on these migrant populations as they are the largest in the Netherlands and have the highest risk of developing dementia.

In this qualitative study, we explored the needs and preferences of our target populations aged 50-75 years old at increased dementia risk by conducting semistructured interviews and focus groups. Participant feedback was used to iteratively refine and adapt a prototype intervention based on insights from prior mHealth trials.

We interviewed 23 participants (median age 59, IQR 55-63 y; n=15, 65% female) and conducted two focus groups with 7 Turkish women and 13 Dutch participants with low SES. The target populations emphasized personalization features such as goal setting, self-tracking, educational material, and remote coaching. Participants highlighted the importance of social interaction and autonomy in achieving sustainable lifestyle changes. Tailoring coaching and lifestyle advice to cultural practices was deemed beneficial.

Optimal mHealth interventions targeting dementia risk factors in migrants and individuals with low SES should be personalized and interactive, respect autonomy, and integrate cultural needs and preferences.