[Usability of activity trackers in geriatric rehabilitation].

BACKGROUND

Practical information about the usability of activity trackers specifically for geriatric rehabilitation is often lacking but is important for a choice of use in daily clinical practice. The aim of this study is to evaluate the usability of activity trackers for orthopaedic patients in geriatric rehabilitation.

METHOD: In a practice-based study from two healthcare organizations, patients (n=36) and therapists (n=12) evaluated three different activity trackers (Hipper, Yamax and Pedometer). For this evaluation, the System Usability Scale (SUS) and open questions were used.

RESULTS

In general, the use of activity trackers was seen as useful, because it can encourage movement and provide insight into the rehabilitation progress. Patients and therapists rated the usability of the three activity trackers as moderate to good. Important aspects for this rating were the capabilities/limitations of the pecific population (such as dexterity and possession of a smartphone for Pedometer), the SUS scores (moderate-poor for Yamax) and the registration/measurement accuracy (Yamax inaccurate when shuffling; reading display can be difficult with the Hipper).

CONCLUSION

The usability of activity trackers varied among these orthopaedic patients. For successful use, it is important that the choice is tailored to the individual needs of the patient.