Game-Based Mobile App for Autism
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment PuzzleWalk for autism?
The PuzzleWalk app, designed to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior, showed satisfactory usability for adults with and without autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Additionally, a gaming platform for autism intervention demonstrated improvements in concentration, flexibility, and self-esteem in children, suggesting that game-based apps can be beneficial for individuals with ASD.12345
Is the PuzzleWalk app safe for use in humans?
How is the PuzzleWalk treatment different from other autism treatments?
PuzzleWalk is unique because it uses a game-based mobile app to deliver autism intervention, focusing on improving skills like imitation and joint attention through interactive games. This approach allows for personalized, home-based therapy that involves parents and therapists, making it more accessible and adaptable compared to traditional in-person therapies.1891011
What is the purpose of this trial?
The clinical study aims to develop and test a gamified mobile health app called PuzzleWalk (PW) to promote physical activity (PA) and reduce sedentary behavior (SB) in autistic adults, including those with mild intellectual disabilities (ID). The study addresses the need for tailored interventions in this population, who are at higher risk for lifestyle-related chronic health conditions due to lower PA and higher SB. The upgraded version of PuzzleWalk integrates behavior change techniques and gamification strategies, such as translating step counts into puzzle game playtime, to encourage regular PA and reduce SB. The study will evaluate the app's effectiveness on preventive health behavior changes in real-world settings. The ultimate goal is to create an effective, sustainable, and scientifically validated mobile health tool to improve the health and well-being of autistic adults.
Research Team
Daehyoung Lee, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Delaware
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for autistic adults, including those with mild intellectual disabilities. It's designed to help participants who are at risk of health issues due to low physical activity and high sedentary behavior. The study seeks individuals willing to use a gamified mobile app aimed at increasing their daily movement.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Data Collection
Participants undergo baseline data collection including demographics, technology and medication use, and accelerometer-derived PA and sedentary time
Intervention
Participants use the upgraded PuzzleWalk app to increase physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior, supported by periodic reminders and reinforcement messages
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in physical activity and sedentary behavior after the intervention
Treatment Details
Interventions
- PuzzleWalk
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Delaware
Lead Sponsor
Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health
Collaborator