Fellow in Geriatric Oncology and Clinical Pharmacology The University of Chicago Chicago, Illinois, United States
Background: Cancer is a disease of older adults (OAs). Frailty, activity, and nutrition status markers predict treatment tolerance and identify early signs of toxicity in older adults. However, these measures are rarely assessed in clinical trials due to cost and time burden. Emerging technology-based tools could facilitate incorporating these measures into drug studies; however, user-centric design is essential to maximize equitable adoption of such tools in older adults. We created a customized platform, GeRI, connecting a tablet, wrist accelerometer and scale that can be used to remotely collect frailty, activity and nutrition markers in the home. The objective of this study is to adapt the platform using feedback from older adult users. Methods: We will conduct an iterative participatory design study in n=20 older adults. First, n=10 older adults with prior cancer will be given a GeRI prototype to try at home for 2 weeks with access to technical support and a user manual. Participants will then be interviewed about their experience and opportunities to improve usability, and they will rate GeRI using the 10-item System Usability Scale. GeRI will be re-programmed and deployed in another n=10 older adults with active prostate cancer on hormone therapy for 2 weeks, followed by interviews. Interviews will be transcribed and evaluated for thematic content.
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Design: GeRI is the most comprehensive, remote data collection platform in cancer care to date. It remotely collects and transmits patient-reported, objective mobility and body composition measures in the home. This project will adapt GeRI to older users to maximize ease of use and adoption potential. This platform could support the decentralization of drug studies and the inclusion of diverse patients, both priorities set forth by the FDA.
