Co-creation of mHealth intervention for older adults with hip fracture and family caregivers: a qualitative study

Abstract

Introduction Hip fracture results in an older person’s loss of independence. Limited healthcare resources make mobile Health (mHealth) an alternative. Engaging key stakeholders in health technology development is essential to overcome existing barriers. The aim of this study was to establish perspectives of older adults with hip fracture, family caregivers and health professionals (stakeholders) on the development of a mHealth system. Methods Qualitative study guided by user-centered design principles with focus groups to engage stakeholders during the development. Seven focus groups were conducted [older adults with hip fracture (n=2), caregivers (n=3), and health providers (n=2)] with 45 participants (14 older adults, 21 caregivers, and 10 health providers). Inclusion criteria were older adults ≥ 65 years who sustained a hip fracture in the previous 3 months; family caregiver of a person with hip fracture; and health providers with 2+ years of clinical experience working older adults with hip fracture. We followed standard methods for focus groups, including recording, transcription, and conducting an inductive content analysis. The same moderator, with clinical and research experience, conducted all focus groups. Results Three themes were generated to consider for a future mHealth intervention: (1) user-friendly design; (2) content to include recovery and prevention information; and (3) implementation factors. Our mHealth system was developed based on feedback from participants. Conclusions Co-creating mHealth technology with stakeholders is essential for uptake and adherence. We provide an overview of the development of ActiveHip+, an mHealth system for the clinical care of older adults with hip fracture. Keywords: tele-rehabilitation; telemedicine; hip fracture; older adults with hip fracture; family caregivers; health providers; mobile applications; medical informatics