Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology
Exploring 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.
Abstract
Background: Maintaining and motivating physical functioning among older adults has substantial health-related benefits, such as reducing the risk of falls and increasing the opportunities for independent living. Supporting preventive actions among older adults also has socioeconomic relevance. Previous studies have shown that digital tools involving video feedback can facilitate reflection and learning by encouraging active engagement.
Materials and Methods: 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.
Results: 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.
Conclusion: The SUS score obtained in this study was indicative of high usability (96th-100th 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.
IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATION
Many walking aid users do not receive adequate guidance on device fitting or assisted gait patterns, which may contribute to injury or falls.
An interactive, video feedback-based mobile application may provide accessible education on safe walking aid use to bridge this knowledge gap.
Walking aid users found this mobile application to be highly usable.
