Usability Insights From Nursing Home Residents On a New Hip Protector Design in Singapore: a Feasibility Study

Abstract

Older adults residing in nursing homes face an increased risk of falls leading to hip fractures, resulting in a reduced quality of life. This study aimed to explore the usability (i.e. learnability, efficiency, and satisfaction) of a newly developed EXO + hip protector in a nursing home in Singapore. The study used a mixed-method approach. Eligible residents in the participating nursing home were recruited to participate in a two-month trial of the hip protector. Wear time data was recorded and analyzed. Participants without cognitive impairments participated in semi-structured interviews to share their experiences with the hip protector. All interviews were transcribed verbatim and thematically analyzed to identify trends. Fifteen male residents completed the study with eight having cognitive impairment. The average wear time was 1.5 h/day. Residents with cognitive impairment had a higher wear time (1.9 h/day) compared to residents without cognitive impairment (1.1 h/day). The most cited reason for non-wear was a refusal from residents due to discomfort and not recognizing the need to wear the hip protector. No falls were reported throughout the trial period. Seven interviews revealed that some positive factors in their learnability and efficiency (e.g., training, functional status, elder-friendly design, wearing regime) led to increased user satisfaction. In contrast, barriers including functional limitations and non-elder-friendly features led to poor compliance and dissatisfaction. The findings demonstrated the potential for using hip protectors, particularly for ambulatory residents, in local nursing homes. Improvement in the design of the hip protector can improve users’ experience in a larger-scale study.