Evaluating the Effectiveness of Video-based Apps in Healthcare

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Video-based Apps in Healthcare

The goal of this clinical trial is to understand the effectiveness of a novel video-feedback based mobile application that teaches walking aid skills to current or anticipated walking aid users. The main questions it aims to answer are:

1. Does this app improve balance confidence in walking aid users, as compared to a sham app?
2. Does this app improve clinically relevant outcomes in walking aid users, as compared to a sham app?

Researchers will compare balance confidence and clinical outcomes to a control group undergoing the same protocol but using an identical app that teaches teaching general health skills instead. The intervention group will be learning the skills of fitting and walking with their gait aid while the control group will be learning the skills of deep breathing to reduce stress and turning in bed safely.

Participants will take part in 3 data collection sessions. The first two, that will be about 4-6 days apart, are identical. During these two data sessions, the participants will begin by completing a pre-app survey, then completing 2 app modules, and finish by completing a post-app survey. About 26-30 days after the second study visit, participants will be asked to complete a survey.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Between the ages of 6 and 99
• Currently using a walker, crutch(es), or cane(s) ≥ 5 days/week, OR will be expecting to use such a walking aid for ≥ 7 days in a row (for those undergoing planned surgery)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Self-identify as being unable to comfortably communicate in English
• Self-identify as having a significant visual impairment that would affect their ability to use an app that involves watching videos
• Self-identify as using a wheelchair, walking poles, or a knee scooter for ≥ 75% of the time for mobility