Usability challenges of mobile health technologies developed for community-dwelling older adults : A scoping review

Mobile health (mHealth) technology, using mobile and wireless devices to support medical and health care services, is a field with numerous benefits. However, there is a lack of strong evidence regarding its widespread use by older adults. This study addressed the usability issues of mHealth technologies developed for community-dwelling older adults. A scoping review methodology developed by Arskey and O’Malley was followed. Using keywords, a search of relevant literature published between January 2013 and September 10, 2023, was conducted through five databases. The review included twenty-two studies, which were summarised qualitatively. Two thematic constructs and ten sub-themes were derived from an analysis of the selected studies, leading to practical recommendations for the effective design and development process of mHealth devices. These recommendations have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for older adults, a cause we all care deeply about.