Personalized techniques for lifestyle change

Abstract

Online delivery of lifestyle intervention programs offers the potential to cost effectively reach large cohorts of users with various information and dietary needs. Unfortunately, online systems can fail to engage users in the long term, affecting their ability to sustain positive lifestyle change. In this work we present the initial analysis of a large scale application study of personalized technologies for lifestyle change. We evaluate the stickiness of an eHealth portal which provides individuals with three personalized tools - meal planner, social network feeds, and social comparison - to make change a reality in their lives. More than 5000 Australians took part in a 12 week study and provided solid empirical evidence for how the inclusion of personalized tools can assist and motivate users. Initial results show that the personalized tools boost user interaction with the portal, simplify information access, and assist in motivating users. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.