Exploring an Existing Weight Management App for Use With Adolescents and Young Adults With Spina Bifida: Usability Study

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.

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“…All three study arms emphasized web-enabled technology that is commonly owned among adults with SB [38,39]. Daily usage of these devices [40][41][42][43] meant that participants could participate in various aspects of data entry without much additional training on the data entry tasks associated with the study [44]. Moreover, the entirely electronic data collection structure allowed the cohort to flexibly provide their data "anywhere and anytime" in spaces that were convenient to them, thereby minimizing the potential disruption to their daily lives [36,44].…”

“…Web-enabled devices, such as cell phones and tablets, are the most commonly owned device by people with disabilities [37], including those with SB [38,39]. Adults and young people in this population use their web-enabled technology daily for various purposes, such as health care, work, education and social interaction [40][41][42][43]. Navigating these different tasks means that individuals with SB are already "self-trained" on most, if not all, of the physical skills needed for study research participation (e.g., clicking on links, opening documents, entering/changing text, using fingers to swipe pages or mark boxes or submitting forms) [44].…”