Effect of a Kinect-based exercise game on improving executive cognitive performance in community-dwelling elderly

Abstract

Decrease of Dual-Task (DT) ability is known to be one of fall-risk factors. We developed a new game concept, Dual-Task Tai Chi (DTTC), using Kinect (Microsoft Co.), a motion-capture device, and demonstrated that the DTTC test can quantitatively evaluate various functions that are known risk factors for falling in elderly adults. Moreover, DT training has been attracting attention as a way to improve balance and DT ability. However, only a few studies have reported that it improves cognitive performance. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to demonstrate whether or not a 12-week program of DTTC training would effectively improve cognitive functions. A total of 41 elderly individuals (training group: n = 26, control group: n = 15) participated in this study and their cognitive functions were assessed before and after DTTC training. Significant differences were observed between the two groups with significant group × time interactions for the executive cognitive function measure: Δtrail-making test (part Bpart A) (p < 0.05). The results suggest that DTTC training is effective for improving executive cognitive functions.

The interplay of physical and social wellbeing in older adults: investigating the relationship between physical training and social interactions with virtual social environments

“…Devices such as the Kinect 1 (Kayama et al, 2013;Pisan, Marin & Navarro, 2013) and the Wii 2 allow users to use their body movement to control in-game characters. Both customized (Carmichael et al, 2010;Alankus et al, 2010) and off-the-shelf solutions (Jung et al, 2009;Agmon et al, 2011;Jorgensen et al, 2012) have been tried to train older adults.…”

The Effectiveness of a Virtual Reality-Based Tai Chi Exercise on Cognitive and Physical Function in Older Adults with Cognitive Impairment

“…TC might affect cognitive functions via many direct and indirect pathways. Kayama et al [24] conducted a dual-task TC program using Kinect to evaluate executive cognitive functions in community-dwelling elderly subjects without CI. After 12 weeks of training, the change of trail making test scores (revealed executive function) improved significantly.…”

Pervasive game design to evaluate social interaction effects on levels of physical activity among older adults

“…34 One group of games that is commonly evaluated in research targeting older adults is the class of the so-called exergames, games in which the player must perform specific kinds of coordinated movements to control the input, sometimes in association with other cognitive tasks. 35 Many studies have used different kinds of interfaces for such games, and evaluated the user acceptance of the technology and/or motivation to play. 36,37 There are also some examples of pervasive games targeting older adults, usually focusing on specific goals, such as cognitive training 38 and promotion of physical activity using social incentives.…”