Review of the Content and Quality of Mobile Applications About Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias. (June 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Choi, Seul Ki; Yelton, Brooks; Ezeanya, Victor K.; Kannaley, Kristie; Friedman, Daniela B.
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied gerontology. Volume 39:Number 6(2020)
• Page Start: 601
• Page End: 608
• Publication Date: 2020-06
• Subjects: mobile application -- Alzheimer's disease -- dementia -- content analysis; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 362.6
• DOI: 10.1177/0733464818790187
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0733-4648

Abstract

This study reviewed the content of mobile applications (apps) providing Alzheimer's disease or related dementias (ADRD) information and assessed quality of the apps. Characteristics, content, and technical aspects of 36 apps in the U.S. Google Play Store and App Store were coded, and quality of the apps was evaluated using the Mobile Application Rating Scale. Caregiving (62.1%) and disease management (55.6%) content was frequently provided. Few apps had an app community (8.3%) or a reminder function (8.3%). Overall, quality of the apps was acceptable; apps by health care–related developers had higher quality scores than those by non-health care–related developers. This analysis showed that ADRD-related apps provide a range of content and have potential to benefit caregivers, individuals with ADRD, health care providers, and the general public. Collaboration of ADRD experts and technology experts is needed to provide evidence-based information using effective technical functions that make apps to meet users' needs.