The Age Limit Does Not Exist: A Pilot Usability Assessment of a SMS-Messaging and Smartwatch-Based Intervention for Older Adults with Depression. Academic Article uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • Current treatments for major depressive disorder are either less effective for older adults (i.e. pharmacotherapy) or are challenging to extend to community settings (i.e. psychotherapy). To improve and extend mental health treatment for older adults, our team has expanded a previously developed streamlined talk-therapy model to incorporate a technology package that includes patient-reported outcome questions (sent via SMS) and a smartwatch. The goal of this pilot study was to assess and improve the usability, usefulness, and acceptability of the technology package. We completed a pilot feasibility and usability assessment with 15 older adults. Participants demonstrated the feasibility of use of the intervention, successfully completing 99% of their assigned tasks during the pilot. Findings were used to address usability barriers in preparation for future clinical trials. Our results highlight the importance completing usability assessment and involving older adults in the intervention design process when incorporating technology into care.

publication date

  • January 25, 2021

Research

keywords

  • Delivery of Health Care
  • Depression
  • Depressive Disorder, Major
  • Mobile Applications
  • Patient Acceptance of Health Care
  • Text Messaging

Identity

PubMed Central ID

  • PMC8075500

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 85105252049

PubMed ID

  • 33936393

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 2020