Mobile applications developed for children and adolescents experiencing chronic health conditions: An integrative review

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an integrative literature review regarding the methods to develop mobile applications for children and adolescents experiencing chronic health conditions. The analyzed manuscripts were available on MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, SciELO, LILACS and EMBASE, over a period from 2010 to 2020. We identified 87 manuscripts in the databases and 8 of them attended the inclusion and quality criteria. It was observed that the use of humor, gamification, simple language and attractive visuals arouse interest and facilitated the use of the application. The examined literature evidenced that the development of applications for children and adolescents must recognize the needs of users, considering them in the creation process. Mobile health applications favored adherence and self-care and were important allies in the care of chronically ill children and adolescents.