Presentation
Design Opportunities in mHealth Apps for Blind and Visually Impaired Older Users
DescriptionPrevious research on mHealth technology tailored for older individuals has pinpointed visual acuity as the principal age-related factor leading to usability obstacles. Visual impairments affect not only physical capabilities but also cognitive, psychological, and social functions, each of which is essential for successful aging. For blind and visually impaired (BVI) individuals, the journey of aging can introduce extra challenges. They need to handle medications, adapt to physical constraints, and tackle emotional challenges, all without functional vision. Yet, there is a noticeable gap in research exploring how BVI older individuals utilize and modify mHealth technology for their health management and self-care.
The concept of “inclusive innovation” has been introduced with the aim of emphasizing technological design that is accessible to all, especially to those with disabilities. This innovative approach champions the idea of viewing individuals with disabilities not just as “end-users” but as collaborative partners. It is crucial to recognize the unique needs of older individuals who are aging with disabilities. By understanding these needs, we can ensure that health technologies are designed to adeptly address the challenges faced by this group. This includes considerations about usability, necessary interventions, and the integration of assistive technologies.
The purpose of the presentation is to share the significant findings from the presenter’s previous research. Her research team investigated the preferences or expectations of BVI older users concerning the user interface design and features of mHealth apps. During the presentation, the presenter will discuss the significance of collaborating with users with disabilities to foster inclusive and universally designed mHealth apps. The presenter’s prior study includes the answers to following main research questions: (1) What design aspects should take priority for the main page of mHealth apps tailored for BVI older users?; (2) Which features and menu options are considered essential for such mHealth apps?; and (3) How do BVI older users prefer to access their personal health data?
Fourteen participants with low vision or blindness participated in the focus group interviews. Most participants often underscored the values of customization and simplicity in UX/UI design. They voiced a strong preference for the main pages of apps to be designed with clarity, ensuring they resonated with individual patterns of app use. Furthermore, they proposed various features for mHealth apps. These encompassed aspects like flexible data presentation, audible color information, adaptive color customization, audible error feedback, feasible data entry methods, and a functional toolbar. They also narrated the needs of audible mHealth data visualizations and comprehensible app-based health information. Beyond the primary research questions of the study, the research revealed that BVI older individuals exhibit a strong motivation to learn new mHealth technologies.
This presentation can offer invaluable insights for both mHealth researchers and app developers. It is essential during the development phase to prioritize app learnability to accommodate a broad range of users, ensuring that even those with disabilities can effectively use technological innovations to address health disparities. As we progress, it is imperative to keep inclusivity at the forefront, ensuring we cater to the distinct needs of BVI older individuals.
The concept of “inclusive innovation” has been introduced with the aim of emphasizing technological design that is accessible to all, especially to those with disabilities. This innovative approach champions the idea of viewing individuals with disabilities not just as “end-users” but as collaborative partners. It is crucial to recognize the unique needs of older individuals who are aging with disabilities. By understanding these needs, we can ensure that health technologies are designed to adeptly address the challenges faced by this group. This includes considerations about usability, necessary interventions, and the integration of assistive technologies.
The purpose of the presentation is to share the significant findings from the presenter’s previous research. Her research team investigated the preferences or expectations of BVI older users concerning the user interface design and features of mHealth apps. During the presentation, the presenter will discuss the significance of collaborating with users with disabilities to foster inclusive and universally designed mHealth apps. The presenter’s prior study includes the answers to following main research questions: (1) What design aspects should take priority for the main page of mHealth apps tailored for BVI older users?; (2) Which features and menu options are considered essential for such mHealth apps?; and (3) How do BVI older users prefer to access their personal health data?
Fourteen participants with low vision or blindness participated in the focus group interviews. Most participants often underscored the values of customization and simplicity in UX/UI design. They voiced a strong preference for the main pages of apps to be designed with clarity, ensuring they resonated with individual patterns of app use. Furthermore, they proposed various features for mHealth apps. These encompassed aspects like flexible data presentation, audible color information, adaptive color customization, audible error feedback, feasible data entry methods, and a functional toolbar. They also narrated the needs of audible mHealth data visualizations and comprehensible app-based health information. Beyond the primary research questions of the study, the research revealed that BVI older individuals exhibit a strong motivation to learn new mHealth technologies.
This presentation can offer invaluable insights for both mHealth researchers and app developers. It is essential during the development phase to prioritize app learnability to accommodate a broad range of users, ensuring that even those with disabilities can effectively use technological innovations to address health disparities. As we progress, it is imperative to keep inclusivity at the forefront, ensuring we cater to the distinct needs of BVI older individuals.
Event Type
Oral Presentations
TimeTuesday, March 264:10pm - 4:30pm CDT
LocationSalon A-2
Digital Health