Low-Income, Older African Americans’ Engagement in and Perceptions of a Smartphone-Based Ecological Momentary Assessment Study of Physical Activity and Sedentary Behavior

Abstract

Background and Objectives Smartphone-based ecological momentary assessment (EMA) methods can provide novel insights into modeling and predicting activity-related behaviors, yet many racial and ethnic minority groups report barriers to participating in mobile health research. We aim to (1) report on strategies used to successfully recruit and retain minority older adults in a smartphone-based physical activity and sedentary behavior EMA study and (2) report on participants’ perceptions of study acceptability. Research Design and Methods Researchers partnered with trusted individuals and community organizations serving older adults to facilitate recruitment for an 8-day EMA study of minority older adults’ physical activity and sedentary behavior. Additional strategies such as having experienced, culturally competent team members and available technical support were employed to further recruitment and retention efforts. A post study questionnaire assessed participants’ perceptions of study acceptability. Results In total, 123 minority older adults were recruited; 102 met inclusion criteria, 91 completed the study, and 89 completed the post-study questionnaire. The sample consisted of predominantly low-income African American women with an average age of 70 years. Responses to open-ended questions revealed the most enjoyable aspects of study participation were the ability to learn more about themselves, contribute to science and/or their community, engage in a new activity, and receive financial compensation. Participants reported the least enjoyable aspects of the study included the frequency of EMA questionnaires, apprehension of missing EMA questionnaires, carrying the smartphone, and difficulty wearing the accelerometer. Most participants (97%) expressed interest in being contacted for future studies. Discussion and Implications Low-income, older African Americans reported positive perceptions of a smartphone-based EMA study of physical activity and sedentary behavior. Findings suggest that applying demonstrated strategies to engage this population in technology-based health research can enhance recruitment and retention efforts; however, it is unclear which strategies are most effective in reducing participation barriers.

Establishing and Affirming Social Connections: Recruiting Non-Hispanic Black Adults with Type 2 Diabetes

“…The underrepresentation of minorities limits the generalizability and usefulness of research findings and the potential benefits of clinical research. Historically, recruiting non-Hispanic Black adults has been challenging due to the history of mistrust related to previous behavioral and medical research (Kennedy-Malone et al, 2022; Randolph et al, 2018). Addressing the community’s concerns first is essential to build trusting, engaging relationships before beginning recruitment.…”

“…Addressing the community's concerns first is essential to build trusting, engaging relationships before beginning recruitment. Identifying trusted gatekeepers has been shown to enhance recruitment efforts (Kennedy-Malone et al, 2022).…”