Geri-mobile health: Feasibility of a VA mental health mobile apps training program for older veterans

Background: The VA has developed mobile applications (apps) to support mental health self-management Older Veterans can likely benefit from these apps but may need assistance to learn how to operate them The Geri-Mobile Health Program offers personalized training to older Veterans interested in learning to use these apps to address their well-being goals Here we examine the program's initial effects on mobile device proficiency, quality of life (QoL), usage of and comfort with apps, and acceptability Methods: Veterans are referred by VA providers or may selfrefer to the Geri-Mobile Health program Mental health clinicians conduct individual sessions to teach basics about devices and introduce VA mental health apps Participants complete initial assessments of mobile device proficiency (Mobile Device Proficiency Questionnaire;MDPQ), QoL, the number of days per week they use apps, and their comfort with apps (1: “not at all”;5: “extremely comfortable”) At post-treatment, initial assessments were repeated including the Client Satisfaction Questionnaire to examine program acceptability Results: Twenty-five referrals have been received with 18 Veterans enrolled (M age: 72 92;SD=5 99) To date, 11 participants have completed treatment, 3 are in treatment, 3 are on hold due to COVID, and 1 began to use apps independently after an initial session On average, participants (n=11) completed 8 18 sessions (SD = 3 37) Significant improvements in MDPQ scores were observed at post-treatment (t(10)= -2 77, p= 009) Nonsignificant improvements were seen in QoL Participants increased the number of days apps were used from 1 09 to 2 9 days per week at post-treatment Additionally, they reported increased average comfort using apps to manage their health (Pre=3 18;Post=4), high overall satisfaction with the program (82% very satisfied), and that 100% would definitely recommend the program/return if they were to seek help again Conclusion: Analyses suggested that the Geri-Mobile Health program increases older adults' mobile device proficiency and is highly acceptable Larger studies should examine the program's clinical impact on mental health symptoms and quality of life Programs such as this serve as an example of how to equip older adults with the knowledge necessary to manage their mental health symptoms using apps