To Örebro University

Despite the inter-relationship between physical, cognitive and social factors for older people, the frequency of physical activity typically decreases with age. In this paper, we focus on two specific issues related to physical activity and older people - overcoming the knowledgebarrier and promoting social motivation. We develop a tablet-based prototype called Agile Life that provides ‘Physical Activity Information Chunks’ (PAICs) and also promotes awareness of friends’ activities and opportunities to join in. The results of a user study, including a think-aloud walkthrough and an adapted technology probe, suggest that the social engagement with friends is a strong motivator but that the content of information chunks need to be carefully tailored to the participant. We provide suggestions for further developing an activity application for this age group.