Development and Usability Test of IoT-based Mobile Applications for Persons with Mild Physical Disabilities and their Caregivers

Abstract

With the COVID-19 outbreak, people with disabilities have faced difficulties in managing their health owing to restrictions on medical access and use. Therefore, this study aimed to develop an Internet of Things-based health information-sharing mobile app for the disabled and their caregivers and evaluate its usability in maintaining access to health care services. As a first step, 19 user needs were evaluated through the Daily Health app 1.0, developed for the disabled by the National Rehabilitation Center. Based on these needs, the study participants proceeded with mind maps and personas to derive the User Interface. Subsequently, the Daily Health 2.0 program was designed, and heuristic and usability evaluations were conducted by experts. The Daily Health app 2.0 beta version was developed by modifying the detailed functions and design of the app based on the results of experts' opinions. Finally, a usability evaluation was conducted for app users. The app developed in this study will contribute to the efficient health management of people with disabilities in non-face-to-face situations. When combined with robot technology, it is expected that more effective health management will be possible by replacing physical functions that are difficult for people with disabilities.