| Needs and Feasibility Assessment of Smart Physical Activity and Health Services for Older Adults in Mobile Applications |
| Paper ID : 1657-SPORTCONGRESS |
| Authors |
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Elham Hatami Shahmir * Department of Behavioral and Cognitive Sports Sciences, Faculty of Sport Sciences and Health, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran |
| Abstract |
| Introduction: The rapid growth of the ageing population in Iran and worldwide underscores the need for innovative digital solutions to promote active ageing and improve quality of life. Mobile applications can enhance access to exercise, recreation, and health services for older adults. This study explored the needs, barriers, and design requirements for mobile smart services targeting Iranian seniors as a foundation for a comprehensive ageing platform. Methods: This applied qualitative study used an interpretive phenomenological approach with inductive content analysis in Tehran and Mashhad. Participants included 30 older adults aged ≥60 years (mean = 68.7; 57% women) and 14 executives from ageing-care and digital-health sectors. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, a short demographic survey, and field notes, then analyzed through open, axial, and selective coding. Trustworthiness was ensured by audit trails, participant validation, triangulation, and reflexive journaling. Sampling was purposive with maximum variation until theoretical saturation. Results: The analysis generated 112 codes, 12 subcategories, and four main themes: (1) physical activity and mobility; (2) recreation and social connection; (3) smart health and care services; and (4) barriers to technology use. Most older adults preferred home-based exercises with a “virtual coach” (87%), short instructional videos (73%), and activity tracking (65%). Health-related needs included medication reminders, digital health records, and teleconsultation options. Major barriers were low digital literacy (42%), costs (36%), privacy concerns (29%), and cultural resistance (26%). Managers highlighted the market potential, regulatory and data standards gaps, and the necessity of affordable, sustainable business models. Conclusion: A successful ageing app should be user-centered, accessible, and privacy-assured. The findings provide an evidence-based framework for developing adaptive virtual coaching, short learning modules, multi-channel medication reminders, and safe social spaces to support active ageing and guide policymakers and developers toward inclusive digital- health solutions. |
| Keywords |
| Active ageing; Digital literacy; Mobile health; Older adults; Virtual coach; Iran. |
| Status: Abstract Accepted (Poster Presentation) |
