Gamified online program for managing chronic pain in older adults

The Development of a Gamified Web-based Pain Management Program (GAP) for Community-dwelling Older Adults With Chronic Pain

Not applicable Interventional The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT06387706

This study is testing a fun online program that helps older adults manage their chronic pain through games, exercise, and relaxation techniques instead of relying on medication.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment4 (estimated)
Ages60 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT06387706 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This initiative aims to develop a web-based gamified pain management program specifically designed for community-dwelling older adults suffering from chronic pain. By integrating game-like elements into non-pharmacological pain relief strategies, the program seeks to enhance engagement and motivation among participants. The approach focuses on educational content, physical activity, and relaxation techniques, providing an alternative to traditional medication-based pain management. Participants will be guided through various activities that promote pain relief while fostering a supportive online community.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this program are older adults aged 60 and above who experience chronic non-cancer pain and can engage in light exercise.

Not a fit: Patients with severe visual or auditory impairments, serious organic diseases, or diagnosed mental disorders may not benefit from this program.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the quality of life for older adults by providing effective pain management strategies without the reliance on medications.

How similar studies have performed: While gamification in health interventions is gaining traction, this specific approach for chronic pain management in older adults is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Aged 60 or above
* Can understand Cantonese
* Scored \>6 in the Abbreviated Mental Test; a cut-off point of 6 is valid for differentiating between normal and abnormal cognitive functions in geriatric clients
* Have a history of non-cancer pain in the past 6 months
* Have a pain score of at least 2 on the Numeric Rating Scale
* Able to take part in light exercise and stretching
* Owns a smartphone and can access the Internet

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have severe visual and/or auditory deficits that affect that seeing and hearing
* Have a serious organic disease or malignant tumor
* Have a mental disorder diagnosed by neurologists or psychiatrists
* Had a surgical treatment in the past two months
* Experienced drug addiction

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Chronic Pain Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.