Introduction/Rationale: Falls and fall-related injuries among people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) and people with spinal cord injury (PwSCI) who use wheelchairs/scooters (WC/S) are common. Occupational therapists (OTs) need targeted strategies to prevent falls in these populations. The Individualized Reduction of Falls- (iROLL) intervention was developed by an interprofessional team to meet this need. iROLL participants expressed a desire for iROLL to be delivered via mobile app during pilot testing. In response, an mHealth application was created.
Objectives: To describe the co-design process of a mHealth application (iROLL-O+) to support the delivery of the iROLL program.
Methods/Approach: A systematic literature review was conducted on mHealth applications supporting health behavior change. Findings informed development of the alpha version of the iROLL-O+ application. Feedback on iROLL-O+ was gathered via a focus group with PwMS and PwSCI who use WC/S, to guide refinement. Following thematic analysis of the interviews, findings to guide application refinement were identified.
Results/Practice implications: Nine PwMS and PwSCI who use WC/S (63 ± 7 years, 67% male) engaged in the focus group.Participants’ positive reaction to the application, with emphasis on how the application helps increase access and enhance experience of the iROLL program was a key finding.Feedback supporting refinement included the need for intuitive navigation and design,clear and simple instructions, and application-based opportunities for peer and/or coach collaboration.
Conclusion/Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: The iROLL-O+ application has good potential to support iROLL ’s effectiveness and OT fall prevention needs.