The reference functions of digital hospice care apps from a Serious Game theory perspective

Abstract: The thesis identifies a multiplicity of existing challenges and dilemmas in the hospice care field, such as the increasing demands, limited access, difficulties caused from people with life-limiting conditions living at home and other concerns. The thesis proposes a way of combining the advantages of Serious Games and mobile apps to possibly solve some challenges, namely, a digital app designed for patients from a Serious Game perspective, which could be a complement of current hospice care services and assist in remote hospice care. The analysis of existing resources exposes a lack of hospice care apps containing game elements and designed for patients. The thesis therefore formulates two criteria and conducts a review of apps in health & fitness category in the Swedish App Store. Criterion 1 is for identifying the apps and functions that meet the needs of patients with non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Criterion 2 is for making sure the functions selected containing game elements. The thesis identifies and lists 85 eligible functions and provides brief summaries and analyses. These outcomes can be considered as Reference functions for improving existing hospice care apps and inspiring future researchers and designers.