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

TitleThe Age Limit Does Not Exist: A Pilot Usability Assessment of a SMS-Messaging and Smartwatch-Based Intervention for Older Adults with Depression.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2020
AuthorsBenda NC, Alexopoulos GS, Marino P, Sirey JAnne, Kiosses D, Ancker JS
JournalAMIA Annu Symp Proc
Volume2020
Pagination213-222
Date Published2020
ISSN1942-597X
KeywordsAged, Aged, 80 and over, Delivery of Health Care, Depression, Depressive Disorder, Major, Female, Humans, Male, Mobile Applications, Patient Acceptance of Health Care, Patient Reported Outcome Measures, Perception, Pilot Projects, Technology Assessment, Biomedical, Text Messaging, User-Computer Interface
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.

Alternate JournalAMIA Annu Symp Proc
PubMed ID33936393
PubMed Central IDPMC8075500
Grant ListP50 MH113838 / MH / NIMH NIH HHS / United States