Managing heart failure on the Go: Usability issues with mHealth apps for older adults

Stephanie A. Morey, Laura H. Barg-Walkow, Wendy A. Rogers

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

Abstract

Mobile apps for self-managing chronic health conditions are widely available for download from online app stores. Mobile health (mHealth) apps provide a convenient way of managing health conditions (e.g., congestive heart failure); however, little is known about their design specifications with respect to older adult users. We conducted a 3-phase assessment of human factors issues for common mHealth apps designed for managing congestive heart failure. In Phase 1, we identified two apps often used by older adults. In Phase 2, we evaluated these apps according to standard human factors principles. In Phase 3, we conducted usability testing of the apps with six older adults. We report design issues identified in the apps that limit usability by older adults. We encourage mHealth app designers to improve usability by: 1) providing easier navigation, 2) streamlining data entry processes, 3) providing clear recovery from errors, and 4) simplifying visualizations of data patterns.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationProceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society 2017 International Annual Meeting, HFES 2017
PublisherHuman Factors an Ergonomics Society Inc.
Pages1-5
Number of pages5
ISBN (Electronic)9780945289531
DOIs
StatePublished - 2017
EventHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society 2017 International Annual Meeting, HFES 2017 - Austin, United States
Duration: Oct 9 2017Oct 13 2017

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Human Factors and Ergonomics Society
Volume2017-October
ISSN (Print)1071-1813

Other

OtherHuman Factors and Ergonomics Society 2017 International Annual Meeting, HFES 2017
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CityAustin
Period10/9/1710/13/17

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Human Factors and Ergonomics

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