Client: UMC St. Radboud
An experiment Before we can work out the details of the product, we at IJsfontein always start with experimentation. We asked twelve people with […]An experiment
Before we can work out the details of the product, we at IJsfontein always start with experimentation. We asked twelve people with Parkinson’s disease to take a walk every day for two whole weeks. They were given a notebook in which they could keep track of their experiences. Our goal was to discover what motivates them to move more. A simpler form of questioning would not provide a representative answer when it comes to changing behaviour. One thing became clear immediately: the participants really want to contribute. Contribute to the research, contribute to something bigger, and contribute to acquiring more knowledge about their disease.
Bas Bloem as virtual coach
In the app, the participants chat with their virtual coach Bas Bloem. He motivates them to start moving again and lets them know how valuable their contribution is to the research.
Step counter
Besides the chat function, the app also provides insight into the progress of the participant. The app registers the number of steps the participant takes by way of link to Apple Health and the Google Fit app.
Hooked on a walk around the block
The goal is to have Parkinson’s patients move more for one whole year. It must thereby become a product of habit. Also inspired by the hook-model, Ijsfontein processed various strategies into the app in order to turn moving more into a regular habit.
Hook Model, Nir Eyal
Sabine Schootemeijer, doctoral student in this field, is given insight into the number of steps the participants take daily. She is studying to what extent the app actually facilitates moving more.
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If you would like more information, check out this series of blogs on changing behaviour.