Designing an mHealth App to Encourage Uptake of Muscle-Strengthening Exercise in Older Adults : Co-Design Focus Group Study

Berry, Ethan C.J. and Sculthorpe, Nicholas F. and Warner, Ashley and Sanal-Hayes, Nilihan E. M. and Hayes, Lawrence (2026) Designing an mHealth App to Encourage Uptake of Muscle-Strengthening Exercise in Older Adults : Co-Design Focus Group Study. JMIR Aging, 9: e87332. ISSN 2561-7605

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Abstract

Background: Sarcopenia, the age-related decline in muscle mass and strength, poses a significant threat to functional independence in older adults. Despite strong evidence supporting resistance training as a preventive and therapeutic strategy, adherence to muscle-strengthening guidelines remains low. Mobile health (mHealth) technologies offer a promising avenue to bridge this gap; however, few apps are tailored to older adults or designed with their input. Objective: This study aimed to identify key features that a muscle-strengthening exercise app should include to enhance engagement and uptake among older adults. Secondary aims were to explore perceived barriers and facilitators to app use and to inform the development of an evidence-based, co-designed mHealth intervention. Methods: We used a qualitative co-design approach, involving 4 focus groups with 18 older adults (aged 60-83 years); each group comprised 3 to 6 older adults, stratified by experience with mHealth apps. Sessions were conducted online via Microsoft Teams and guided by a semistructured protocol informed by prior mHealth research and behavior change theory. Transcripts were analyzed using deductive thematic analysis, underpinned by the Technology Acceptance Model, focusing on perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Results: A total of 4 overarching themes and 10 subthemes were identified. Theme 1, mHealth as a tool for supporting health and well-being, highlighted participants’ recognition of digital tools in promoting activity and overcoming accessibility barriers. Theme 2, motivation and engagement through app features, revealed the importance of reminders, progress tracking, and feedback, although views on gamification were mixed. Theme 3, drawbacks of current mobile apps, captured concerns around complexity, poor usability, and lack of age-appropriate content, with skepticism regarding safety and evidence base. Theme 4, desired app elements and features, emphasized the need for customizable reminders, clear instructional videos, adaptable exercise options, and optional social features. Participants stressed the importance of simplicity, personalization, and relatable content to foster trust and sustained engagement. Conclusions: Older adults are receptive to mHealth interventions for muscle-strengthening when design is user centered and grounded in their lived experiences. This study provides a framework for future app development, highlighting the need for intuitive interfaces, personalized features, and credible educational content. By aligning design with Technology Acceptance Model constructs and co-design principles, mHealth apps can better support healthy aging and sarcopenia prevention. These findings offer actionable guidance for developers and researchers aiming to enhance digital health equity and effectiveness in older populations.