Effectiveness of a Smartphone Chatbot to Improve Exercise Adherence in Older Adults

This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a smartphone-based chatbot in improving adherence to a 12-week home-based multicomponent exercise program in community-dwelling older adults. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a chatbot-supported exercise program delivered through Telegram or an equivalent paper-based exercise program. Both groups will perform the same exercise program, including strength, balance, flexibility, and walking exercises. The primary outcome is exercise adherence. Secondary outcomes include physical function, physical activity, participant satisfaction, usability of the chatbot, and adverse events. The study seeks to determine whether chatbot-based support can enhance adherence and improve health outcomes in older adults.

Inclusion Criteria: * Community-dwelling adults aged 60 years or older. * Living independently in the community. * Ownership and regular use of a smartphone. * Familiarity with at least one instant messaging application and ability to access it at least three times per week. * Ability to understand study procedures and instructions. * Ability to provide written informed consent. * Ability to safely perform a home-based exercise program. Exclusion Criteria: * Absolute contraindication to physical exercise. * Inability to understand study instructions. * Inability to read and/or write. * Uncontrolled neurological conditions that may compromise safe participation in exercise. * Uncontrolled cardiovascular conditions that may compromise safe participation in exercise. * Any medical condition judged by the investigators to prevent safe participation in the study.