Measure It Super Simple (MISS) activity tracker: (re)design of a user-friendly interface and evaluation of experiences in daily life
Darcy Ummels, Susy Braun, A. Stevens, Emmylou Beekman, Anna Beurskens
Abstract
PURPOSE: The purposes of this study were, first, to (re)design the user-interface of the activity tracker known as the MOX with the help of input from elderly individuals living independently and, second, to assess the use of and experiences with the adapted Measure It Super Simple (MISS) activity tracker in daily life. METHODS: The double diamond method, which was used to (re)design the user-interface, consists of four phases: discover, define, develop, and deliver. As a departure point, this study used a list of general design requirements that facilitate the development of technology for the elderly. Usage and experiences were assessed through interviews after elderly individuals had used the activity tracker for 2 weeks. RESULTS: In co-creation with thirty-five elderly individuals (65 to 89-years-old) the design, feedback system, and application were further developed into a user-friendly interface: the Measure It Super Simple (MISS) activity. Twenty-eight elderly individuals (65 to 78-years-old) reported that they found the MISS activity easy to use, needed limited help when setting the tracker up, and required limited assistance when using it during their daily lives. CONCLUSIONS: This study offers a generic structured methodology and a list of design requirements to adapt the interface of an existing activity tracker consistent with the skills and needs of the elderly. The MISS activity seemed to be successfully (re)designed, like the elderly who participated in this pilot study reported that anyone should be able to use it.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONThis study provides an overview of important characteristics of the activity tracker interface for elderly individuals that can be used when choosing an appropriate activity tracker.This study can serve as a model that demonstrates how to adapt other eHealth and mHealth tools to improve the user-centred design.The MISS activity seems to be an elderly-friendly activity tracker that can facilitate a meaningful experience.