Implementing a Digital Wellness Application into Use : Challenges and Solutions Among Aged People

Abstract

The ageing population is a growing priority area for policy makers and healthcare providers worldwide. Life expectancy is improving, but at the same time, insufficient physical activity threatens older age. Thus, an important question arises: how to improve the probability of people living a healthy and active life in older age. One potential solution to support physical activity and healthy aging is digital wellness technologies. However, digital wellness technologies are still typically designed for younger populations, yet a growing need and potential also among aged people is prevalent. Aged people are a user group with distinct needs and challenges. The main purpose of this study was to identify challenges and suggest solutions for implementing digital wellness applications into use among aged people. The focus was on the implementation phase. This study was based on a research program where groups of aged people implement into use a digital wellness application that is meant for tracking, following, and supporting physical activity and exercise. In total, 14 main challenges in implementing digital wellness applications into use among aged people were identified. These challenges are categorised into 1) technology-based challenges, 2) physical activity-based challenges, and 3) participant-related challenges. In addition, possible solutions for each challenge are suggested. The findings of this study provide both researchers and practitioners with insights on aspects that would be beneficial to be taken into account in designing digital wellness applications and building digital wellness interventions for aged people.