Physical activity, social inclusion and new technology: A smartphone application in favour of active aging

Aim: This case-study research aims to develop a prototype application for mobile devices, as a tool to support the elderly towards the acquisition of active lifestyles and healthy behaviors. Method: Following a literature review about topics related to PA, elderly and ICT, our interest focused on investigating the programs put in place by municipalities for active aging through the use of ICT. The first part of the study represents the basis for the development of a prototype: this process will be characterized by the active participation of "senior developers", a convenience group selected according to their ability in using technological devices. Several interview and focus group will be conducted to understand which characteristic and functions a technology should have to support the elderly in terms of movement, social inclusion. Results: The literature review showed that studies based on the development of ICTs aimed to promote movement and social inclusion and overcome barriers to PA, are still limited. However, the analysis of the project experiences allowed us to identify a number of initiatives that, through the use of technology systems, may support PA and the adoption of active lifestyles in older people. Conclusion: Ours digital society is getting older: the elderly adapts to technology and vice versa. For this reason it's important to think that only the technologies developed together with the elderly will be really useful to support their daily PA.