Evaluation of an App to Support Healthy Living by Older Adults

Smartphone and tablet computers apps are a promising tool to promote healthy attitudes and behaviours among older adults. A tablet computer app to support older adults in maintaining good nutrition and hydration was developed to allow them to track their intake of fruit and vegetables and appropriate liquids. A highly user-centred design lifecycle was used which culminated in a field study with fifteen older adults who used the app for two weeks. Two main themes emerged from the results of their experiences with the app: ease of use and usefulness of the app. Although there were some usability issues, overall participants found the app easy to use, straightforward and designed to do what it was supposed to do. For most of the participants, the app acted as a motivational tool helping them to change their daily diet to eat more fruit and vegetables, and to drink more liquid.