Design participativo para o envelhecimento saudável: engajar usuários mais velhos a uma vida urbana ativa impulsionada por jogos digitais lúdicos

Abstract

Older adults tend to be underactive, which is a risk factor for chronic non-communicable diseases, which are equally painful for the individual as they are costly to the public health system. Maintaining levels of physical activity throughout life is a motivational challenge. Digital tools have been used to change this pattern, such as smartphone apps to support physical activity; but in-depth research on personalization is lacking to drive sedentary behavior change, considering what end users really want. Objective: To propose the concept and design vision of a new mobile physical activity application (PAUL) used in urban areas. Method: A qualitative focus group study was carried out, involving by prototype co-design; 24 volunteers divided into 2 focus groups from two Brazilian cities: São Carlos - elderly people who are not users of an app for physical activity and Santos (adults over 35, app users). The following procedures were performed: (i) baseline assessments; (ii) a focus group (iii) develop activities with both groups to redesign the Prototype. Data analysis: Thematic content analysis was performed. Results: the development of physical activity applications in urban environments, for people over 35 years old, should consider the following resources: custom-made and customizable application. Younger adults prefer resources such as self-monitoring, goal setting and social influence. Older adults prefer a simple interface, with self-monitoring, goal setting and reminders. This study provided recommendations for translating motivational strategies theoretically embedded in functional elements that can guide the development of health interventions to engage urban residents in an active urban life.