Promoting healthy computer use: timing-informed computer health animations for prolonged sitting computer users

Abstract

Accompanying the increase in computer and Internet use worldwide, physical inactivity has become prevalent in most developed and developing countries. Extended computer use may contribute to symptoms such as visual impairment and musculoskeletal disorders. To reduce the risk of physical inactivity and promote healthier computer use, this study tries to develop a timed broadcast of health-related animations for users sitting at computers for prolonged periods. In addition, we examine the effects that the program has on the computer-related health beliefs and behaviour of participants. Before-and-after survey questionnaires were used for data collection. The results show that the animation program indeed had a positive effect when reminding participants to take a break and stretch their bodies. The program influenced the beliefs and behaviours of participants with regard to their health. The development and examination were documented and discussed within the context of health agencies planning the next steps in an effort to promote, develop and evaluate healthy computer use.

Keywords:

• animation
• healthy computer use
• physical activity
• ergonomics
• health promotion

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Acknowledgements

This work was supported by the National Science Council under the Grant NSC 98-2511-S-415-009-MY2. The authors sincerely appreciate the editor and anonymous reviewers' comments and suggestions.