The usability of a video feedback-based walking aid skills training program: a multi-method study

To explore the usability of a novel interactive video-based educational mobile application for teaching walking aid skills to users with various indications for and experiences with using walking aids.

This study employed a multi-method design. Participants used the app on two occasions, two weeks apart. Usability was explored through semi-structured interviews and the System Usability Scale (SUS) at the end of the intervention. Interviews were analysed thematically using the Braun and Clarke approach. A combination of inductive and deductive coding was used, leveraging constructs from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and adding new themes as they emerged.

Twelve walking aid users [mean (SD) age 54.2 (15.8) years; 6 males] participated. The mean (SD) SUS score was 88.3 (10.5). Four themes emerged: experiences of walking aid training, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and motivations for app use.

The SUS score obtained in this study was indicative of high usability (96^th-100^th percentile). Walking aid users found the interactive app to be easy-to-use and a useful platform for learning and maintaining walking aid skills. Participants also highlighted areas for improving the app, such as adding an audio component.