Abstract
BackgroundAdolescents and young adults with spina bifida (AYA-SBs) have unique user needs, given their variable and complex symptom profile. Owing to multiple barriers to prevention and intervention treatments for secondary conditions (eg, obesity), AYA-SBs may benefit from the use of behavioral intervention technologies (BITs). However, as BITs are often designed and tested with typically developing individuals, it is unclear if existing BITs may be usable for AYA-SBs.ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate the usability of a high-quality, publicly available, weight management–focused mobile BIT (smartphone app) for AYA-SBs.MethodsOverall, 28 AYA-SBs attending a Young Men’s Christian Association–based summer camp completed 4 structured usability tasks using a weight management app designed for the general public called My Diet Coach (Bending Spoons). Learnability was measured by (1) time to complete task, (2) number of user errors, and (3) correct entry of data when requested by the app. Satisfaction and general usability were measured via self-reported questionnaires and qualitative feedback following interactions with the app.ResultsThe majority of the sample were able to complete the tasks, with increased completion rates and improved times on second attempts of the tasks (Ps<.05). Errors were common, and discrepancies emerged between quantitative and qualitative feedback such that self-reported measures indicated dissatisfaction but qualitative feedback was generally positive. Suggested improvements to the app included (1) tutorials, (2) simplifying the design, (3) more activity options for those who ambulate by wheelchair, and (4) notifications to prompt use.ConclusionsAYA-SBs were able to learn how to complete specific tasks independently on a weight management app, but design changes consistent with previously proposed user needs were recommended. Rather than designing entirely new BITs, it may be possible to adapt existing technologies to personalize BITs for specific populations such as AYA-SBs.
Highlights
BackgroundSpina bifida (SB) is the most common congenital birth defect affecting the central nervous system and requires the management of both a complex medical treatment regimen and a variety of cognitive and psychosocial comorbidities [1,2]
The body mass index (BMI) of the sample ranged from underweight to obese, with the average BMI falling within the normal range
It should be noted that 7 participants (24%) did not have BMI data because of difficulty in reporting current height and/or weight [41]
Summary
BackgroundSpina bifida (SB) is the most common congenital birth defect affecting the central nervous system and requires the management of both a complex medical treatment regimen and a variety of cognitive and psychosocial comorbidities [1,2]. A self-management behavioral intervention technology (BIT) for people with disabilities (ie, SB, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injuries), Interactive Mobile Health and Rehabilitation (iMHere), has demonstrated feasibility and benefits to high users of the system [14]. Technology usage, in combination with the barriers faced to addressing obesity, implicates the use of BITs as a delivery mechanism for obesity and healthy lifestyle monitoring and interventions for AYA-SBs. Adolescents and young adults with spina bifida (AYA-SBs) have unique user needs, given their variable and complex symptom profile. Owing to multiple barriers to prevention and intervention treatments for secondary conditions (eg, obesity), AYA-SBs may benefit from the use of behavioral intervention technologies (BITs). Conclusions: AYA-SBs were able to learn how to complete specific tasks independently on a weight management app, but design changes consistent with previously proposed user needs were recommended. Rather than designing entirely new BITs, it may be possible to adapt existing technologies to personalize BITs for specific populations such as AYA-SBs
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