Using games and coaching to help older adults move better after hospital stays
A Randomized Trial of Gamification and Coaching to Improve Mobility after Hospitalization
This study is looking at how fun activities and support from a virtual coach can help older adults with health issues like high blood pressure or diabetes stay active and mobile after leaving the hospital, so they can keep their independence.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10872330 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how gamification and coaching can improve mobility in older adults after they leave the hospital. It focuses on individuals with chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and mild to moderate heart failure. Participants will receive support from a virtual health coach and engage in a behaviorally designed program to increase their physical activity levels. The study aims to build on previous successful pilot results to help a larger group of at-risk adults maintain their mobility and independence.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 65 and older who have been hospitalized for chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or heart failure.
Not a fit: Patients who are not hospitalized or do not have chronic conditions related to mobility may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the mobility and independence of older adults after hospitalization.
How similar studies have performed: Previous pilot studies have shown success with similar gamification and coaching approaches, indicating potential for broader application.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Greysen, Scott Ryan — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Greysen, Scott Ryan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.