StepFarm: An Active Video Game to Support the Self-Management of Chronic Diseases in Children

Asthma is the most common chronic disease among children, preventing some children from performing moderate – vigorous physical activity. However, children actually benefit from an increase in physical activity when their asthma is under control. To support the self-management of asthma in children, a project was initiated wherein an interface was to be designed which promotes physical activity. In context of this project, self-management is referred to as providing children with the tools to cope with their chronic disease on a daily basis, by means of education and the promotion of physical activity. The interface took form as an Active Video Game (AVG) concept named StepFarm, which consists of a gathering mechanic to support physical activity and several educational game mechanics to educate the players how to cope with their chronic disease. Literature research and short-term testing of a prototype show possibilities for StepFarm to support the self-management of asthma, and other chronic diseases in the future, in children. But long-term testing and more research is required to examine an actual increase in physical activity and knowledge over a longer time-period.