Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences
Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences

Elderly User Engagement with Mobile Health Applications: A Qualitative Analysis of User Interface and User Experience for Enhanced Technology Acceptance through a Scoping Review

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

Upasana Saxena 1
Nikhilesh Sharma 2

1 Amity School of Communication, Amity University, Lucknow, India

2 University School of Design and Innovation, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, Delhi, India

10.34172/jqr.1346
Abstract
Background: Mobile health applications (mHealth Apps) are designed to align with user preferences to enhance engagement and create valuable experiences. This study aimed to investigate user interface (UI) design patterns in mHealth applications and promote technology acceptance among elderly users.
Methods: The study employed a scoping review methodology. A comprehensive search was conducted across databases using the PRISMA framework, and the Rayyan application was utilized to further compile data from various sources regarding mHealth usage among individuals aged 60 years and older. The scoping review synthesized and summarized findings on how the elderly adopt mHealth applications for health benefits.
Results: The findings indicated that factors such as visual clarity, color scheme, layout, intuitive navigation, iconography, and accessibility had a significant relationship with users’ behavioral intentions to engage with mHealth UIs. It is anticipated that designing interfaces based on the preferences of a certain group of users could enhance their acceptance of technology.
Conclusion: This study underscored the critical role of UI design in developing mobile applications for the elderly. It encouraged UI designers to incorporate relevant design elements while developing these applications. Recommendations for developers included ensuring easy navigation, using clear fonts and colors, minimizing content, and incorporating visually intuitive buttons. Moreover, the study highlighted the importance of including emergency contact numbers in m-health applications.

Keywords

Mobile health
User intention
User interface
User experience
Technology acceptance
Elderly
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Journal of Qualitative Research in Health Sciences
Volume 14
Pages 1-9

  • Receive Date 23 October 2023
  • Revise Date 21 April 2025
  • Accept Date 04 May 2025

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