Open AccessUser-Centered Design to Enhance mHealth Systems for Individuals With Dexterity Impairments: Accessibility and Usability Study
Author(s) -
K. R. Chowdhary,
Daihua X. Yu,
Gede Pramana,
Matthew Mesoros,
Andrea D. Fairman,
Brad E. Dicianno,
Bambang Parmanto
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
jmir human factors
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2292-9495
DOI - 10.2196/23794
Subject(s) - usability , mhealth , computer science , user interface , psychological intervention , human–computer interaction , assistive technology , user experience design , applied psychology , psychology , medicine , nursing , operating system
Background Mobile health systems have been shown to be useful in supporting self-management by promoting adherence to schedules and longitudinal health interventions, especially in people with disabilities. The Interactive Mobile Health and Rehabilitation (iMHere) system was developed to empower people with disabilities and those with chronic conditions with supports needed for self-management and independent living. Since the first iteration of the iMHere 1.0 app, several studies have evaluated the accessibility and usability of the system. Potential opportunities to improve and simplify the user interface were identified, and the iMHere modules were redesigned accordingly. Objective In this study, we aim to evaluate the usability of the redesigned modules within the iMHere 1.0 app. Methods We evaluated the original and redesigned iMHere modules—MyMeds and SkinCare. The Purdue Pegboard Test was administered to assess the participants’ dexterity levels. Participants were then asked to perform a set of tasks using both the original and redesigned MyMeds and SkinCare modules to assess their efficiency and effectiveness. Usability was measured using the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire to evaluate 10 new accessibility features that were added to the redesigned app. Participants were also asked which version they preferred. Results In total, 24 participants with disabilities and varying degrees of dexterity impairments completed the entire study protocol. Participants displayed improved efficiency and effectiveness when using the redesigned modules compared with the original modules. The participants also reported improved usability and preferred the redesigned modules. Conclusions This study demonstrated that the iMHere system became more efficient, effective, and usable for individuals with dexterity impairments after redesigning it according to user-centered principles.