Usability Evaluation of Digital Health Applications for Older People With Depressive Disorders: Prospective...

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Geriatric Medicine
• Psychiatry

Background:

• Digital health applications (DiGA) are integrated into Germany's healthcare system.
• Deprexis and Selfapy are the first approved DiGA for depressive disorders.
• Older adults are underrepresented in DiGA studies, risking health inequalities.

Purpose of the Study:

• Assess the usability of deprexis and Selfapy for adults aged 60+ with mild to moderate depression.
• Identify the more user-friendly DiGA for an upcoming randomized controlled trial.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational study using the PACMAD usability model.
• Mixed methods design with quantitative questionnaires (health literacy, eHealth literacy, depression, usability) and qualitative think-aloud/interviews.
• 18 participants aged ≥60 with mild/moderate depression recruited from hospital departments.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in age, gender, depressive severity, or health literacy between groups.
• Selfapy users showed slightly lower technical proficiency and usability scores.
• Qualitative data indicated lower Selfapy usability due to design issues and higher cognitive load.

Conclusions:

• Both DiGA were endorsed by older users, despite usability challenges.
• Assistance and practice are crucial for older adults using DiGA.
• Findings can inform future DiGA development for improved older adult accessibility.