Smartphone chatbot to support healthy eating and physical activity for older adults
The Acceptability and Preliminary Effectiveness of Using A Smartphone-delivered AI-Based Chatbot in Older Adults for Lifestyle Modification: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT06901037
This trial will test whether a smartphone chatbot can help people aged 65 and older eat healthier and be more physically active.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 84 (estimated) |
| Ages | 65 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06901037 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot randomized controlled trial will randomize community-dwelling older adults into two arms to receive a smartphone-delivered AI chatbot intervention or a control condition. The chatbot is designed to support healthy dietary behaviors and increase participation in moderate-intensity physical activity through messaging on an instant messaging app. Eligible participants are Mandarin-speaking adults aged 65 or above with internet access and a smartphone capable of running an instant messaging app; those with neurocognitive disorders or who cannot safely perform moderate activity are excluded. The study focuses on acceptability and preliminary effectiveness outcomes to inform larger trials.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are community-dwelling, Mandarin-speaking adults aged 65+ in Hong Kong who own a smartphone with internet access and can safely engage in moderate-intensity physical activity.
Not a fit: People with neurocognitive disorders, medical conditions that prevent moderate exercise, or those uncomfortable using smartphones are unlikely to benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the chatbot could offer an accessible, scalable way for older adults to improve diet and activity levels without frequent clinic visits.
How similar studies have performed: Similar chatbot and digital coaching approaches have shown promising early results for lifestyle change in younger populations, but randomized evidence in older Mandarin-speaking adults is limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * aged 65 or above. * are community-dwelling. * are proficient in Mandarin. * have an Internet connection. * have at least one instant messaging app on the smartphone or agree to download one. Exclusion Criteria: * have any neurocognitive disorders. * are unable to engage in moderate-intensity level of physical activity due to a preexisting medical condition. * live with another participant who will participate in this study.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Arkers Wong, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Arkers Wong, PhD
- Email: arkers.wong@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +85234003805
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.
Conditions: Healthy Lifestyle, Chatbot, older adults