Development and Evaluation of A Game-Based Mobile App for Increasing Physical Activity in Autistic Adults

Description

The clinical study aims to develop and test a gamified mobile health app called PuzzleWalk (PW) to promote physical activity (PA) and reduce sedentary behavior (SB) in autistic adults, including those with mild intellectual disabilities (ID). The study addresses the need for tailored interventions in this population, who are at higher risk for lifestyle-related chronic health conditions due to lower PA and higher SB. The upgraded version of PuzzleWalk integrates behavior change techniques and gamification strategies, such as translating step counts into puzzle game playtime, to encourage regular PA and reduce SB. The study will evaluate the app's effectiveness on preventive health behavior changes in real-world settings. The ultimate goal is to create an effective, sustainable, and scientifically validated mobile health tool to improve the health and well-being of autistic adults.

Conditions

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

The clinical study aims to develop and test a gamified mobile health app called PuzzleWalk (PW) to promote physical activity (PA) and reduce sedentary behavior (SB) in autistic adults, including those with mild intellectual disabilities (ID). The study addresses the need for tailored interventions in this population, who are at higher risk for lifestyle-related chronic health conditions due to lower PA and higher SB. The upgraded version of PuzzleWalk integrates behavior change techniques and gamification strategies, such as translating step counts into puzzle game playtime, to encourage regular PA and reduce SB. The study will evaluate the app's effectiveness on preventive health behavior changes in real-world settings. The ultimate goal is to create an effective, sustainable, and scientifically validated mobile health tool to improve the health and well-being of autistic adults.

Gamified Mobile Health for Physical Activity Promotion in Autistic Adults

Development and Evaluation of A Game-Based Mobile App for Increasing Physical Activity in Autistic Adults

Condition
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Newark

Carpenter Sports Building, Newark, Delaware, United States, 19716

Newark

Carpenter Sports Building, Newark, Delaware, United States, 19716

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility 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)
  • * 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)

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to 55 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Collaborators and Investigators

University of Delaware,

Daehyoung Lee, PhD, PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR, University of Delaware

Study Record Dates

2025-12