A mobile app to increase physical activity in autistic adults
Gamified Mobile Health for Physical Activity Promotion in Autistic Adults
This study is testing a fun mobile app called PuzzleWalk to see if it can help autistic adults be more active and spend less time sitting.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 75 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Delaware Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Newark, Delaware and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06566131 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to develop and evaluate a gamified mobile health app called PuzzleWalk, designed to promote physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior among autistic adults, including those with mild intellectual disabilities. The app integrates behavior change techniques and gamification strategies to encourage regular physical activity by translating step counts into game playtime. The study will assess the app's effectiveness over a 6-week intervention period, measuring changes in participants' physical activity levels and sedentary time using accelerometers. The goal is to create a sustainable and validated tool that improves the health and well-being of autistic adults.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 55 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder who have access to a supported smartphone.
Not a fit: Patients with moderate-to-profound intellectual disabilities or orthopedic conditions that hinder independent movement may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this app could significantly enhance physical activity levels and overall health in autistic adults.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using gamification to promote physical activity, suggesting this approach could be effective.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * adults aged 18 to 55 years * individuals diagnosed with an autism spectrum disroder by a medical professional or self-identify as neurodivergent * individuals who have regular access to a supported smartphone (iOS 13+ operating system) Exclusion Criteria: * individuals with a moderate-to-profound intellectual disability * individuals with orthopedic conditions that significantly interfere with independent ambulation (e.g., using a wheelchair or crutches)
Where this trial is running
Newark, Delaware and 1 other locations
- Carpenter Sports Building — Newark, Delaware, United States (Recruiting)
- Carpenter Sports Building — Newark, Delaware, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Daehyoung Lee, PhD — University of Delaware
- Study coordinator: Daehyoung Lee, PhD
- Email: dhlee@udel.edu
- Phone: 3028310762
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.