Gamification for Improving Mobility After Hospitalization
(MOVE_ON Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byRyan Greysen, MD, MHS, MA

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

The objective of this study is to test the feasibility of using behavioral economic interventions (gamification with social incentives) to increase physical activity after hospital discharge to reduce incident mobility disability among older adults.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults aged 50 or older who can walk on their own and were recently in the hospital for conditions like heart failure, high blood pressure, diabetes, or mobility issues. They must be able to use a smartphone with a wearable device daily and not be part of another physical activity study.

Inclusion Criteria

Admitted to the University of Pennsylvania Health System acute care hospital (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, Pennsylvania Hospital, Lancaster General Health, Chester County Hospital, or Penn Medicine Princeton Medical Center) and discharged to home

I am 50 years old or older.

I can walk on my own without help.

Exclusion Criteria

Inability to provide informed consent

Already enrolled in another physical activity study

I cannot walk more than 1000 steps a day on my own.

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Treatment Details

Interventions

Social Support Gamification (Behavioral Intervention)

Trial OverviewThe study tests if adding game-like elements with social rewards can help older adults stay active after leaving the hospital. The goal is to see if this approach prevents them from losing their ability to move around easily.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Social Support GamificationExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Intervention participants will receive a wearable device (e.g. FitBit) and will enter a game designed with behavioral economics concepts to address predictable barriers to behavior change during a 26-week intervention period. Participants will also work with a virtual health coach throughout the intervention period to increase their physical activity. At the end of the 26 week intervention period, participants will enter a 26 week follow-up period during which interventions will cease but passive data collection of step counts will continue. Participants will also complete milestones within the study, such as the Function assessment during the 6, and 12-month timepoints in the study. They will also complete a series of surveys during the 3, 6, 9, and 12-month timepoints in the study. Participants will complete an end-of-study questionnaire on their experience with the wearable device and time in the study.

Group II: ControlActive Control1 Intervention

Participants will receive a wearable device (e.g. FitBit) but no other interventions during the intervention or follow-up periods.Participants will complete milestones within the study, such as the Function assessment during the 6, and 12-month timepoints in the study. They will also complete a series of surveys during the 3, 6, 9, and 12-month timepoints in the study. Participants will complete an end-of-study questionnaire on their experience with the wearable device and time in the study.