Manocha, RanitaBarnabe, CherylO'Brien, Maureen Megan2024-08-262024-08-262024-08-23O'Brien, M. M. (2024). The feasibility and usability of a novel tool for learning and reviewing walking aid skills: a multi-method study (Master's thesis, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada). Retrieved from https://prism.ucalgary.ca.https://hdl.handle.net/1880/119507Background: Walking aids are used by over 1 million Canadians to facilitate independent mobility and enhance balance. However, inadequate training on the use of walking aids may increase the risk of upper body pain and falling. To address this need, a novel interactive video-based mobile application to teach safe walking aid use was developed. Objectives: 1) To assess the feasibility of a trial with the novel application. 2) To explore the preliminary impact of the novel application on balance confidence, balance, mobility, and endurance. 3) To determine whether the novel application is user-friendly and useful for walking aid users. Methods: In a single-arm, pre-post feasibility study design, adult walking aid users completed the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC), the 2-Minute Walk Test (2MWT), Timed up and Go (TUG) test, and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) at baseline. Participants then used the novel application’s fitting and gait training modules pertaining to their walking aid. A follow-up visit was scheduled 2 weeks later to reinforce app instructions and repeat the ABC, 2MWT, TUG, and BBS. At this time participants also completed the System Usability Scale (SUS), and a semi-structured interview on their app experience. Results: Thirteen walking aid users (mean±SD age 55±15 years; duration of walking aid use 2.7±4.0 years; 7 males) participated. Trial feasibility metrics were attained on 3 out of the 6 indicators. Participants achieved statistically significant small to medium improvements in balance confidence and balance. However, participants did not experience significant improvements in mobility or endurance. The mean±SD SUS score was 88.3±10.5 corresponding to high usability of the novel application. Three major themes emerged from the interviews: perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and motivation for app use. Conclusion: Based on our criteria, a trial with the novel application may be feasible, with some modifications. Preliminary improvements in clinically relevant outcomes including balance confidence and balance were found. Walking aid users found the app to be an easy-to-use platform for learning and maintaining walking aid skills. These findings will help inform a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of the application on clinical outcomes.enUniversity of Calgary graduate students retain copyright ownership and moral rights for their thesis. You may use this material in any way that is permitted by the Copyright Act or through licensing that has been assigned to the document. For uses that are not allowable under copyright legislation or licensing, you are required to seek permission.feasibility studymobile applicationscanescrutcheswalkersgaitbalancemobility limitationusabilityRehabilitation and Therapymaster thesis