Evaluating Mobile Apps Targeting Older Adults: Descriptive Study

BACKGROUND: Smartphone use has increased dramatically and, in parallel, a market for mobile apps, including health apps, has emerged. The business model of targeted mobile app advertisements allows for the collection of personal and potentially sensitive information, often without user knowledge. Older adults comprise a rapidly growing demographic that is potentially vulnerable to exploitation by those accessing data collected via these apps. OBJECTIVE: This research examined apps that claimed to be useful to older adults with a goal of (1) classifying the functionality of each app, (2) identifying whether a privacy policy existed and was accessible, and (3) evaluating evidence that could support claims of value to older adults. METHODS: An environmental scan was conducted using the Google search engine and typing “apps for older adults.” The first 25 sites that this search returned comprised the primary data for this study. Data were organized by descriptive features of purpose (eg, health, finance, and utility), the existence of an electronically accessible privacy policy, price, and evidence supporting each recommended mobile app. RESULTS: A total of 133 mobile apps were identified and promoted as being the best “apps for older adults.” Of these 133 mobile apps, 83% (n=110) included a privacy policy. Fewer apps designated in the “medical” category included a privacy policy than those classified otherwise. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that most mobile apps targeting older adults include a privacy policy. Research is needed to determine whether these privacy policies are readable, succinct, and incorporate accessible data use and sharing practices to mitigate potential risks, particularly when collecting potentially sensitive health information.