Exergames to Prevent the Secondary Functional Deterioration of Older Adults during Hospitalization and Isolation Periods during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic is having an intense impact on the functional capacity of older adults, making them more vulnerable to frailty and dependency. The development of preventive and rehabilitative measures which counteract the consequences of confinement or hospitalization is an urgent need. Exergaming can promote physical activity, prevent falls, and maintain functional and cognitive capacity. However, although the use of exergames in health programs for the elderly is promising, their widespread use should not be considered without the supervision of a social health professional. Therefore, the objective of this work was to evaluate and analyze three video game consoles (Nintendo Wii®, Xbox-Kinect® and Play Station 4®) and 26 commercial exergames with the aim of identifying their usefulness for the prevention of functional deterioration. Three occupational therapists analyzed the data independently, and subsequently agreed on the results. The examination of the commercial consoles met three criteria: components, interaction channels and the type of the exergame. Each exergame was analyzed taking into account its ability to train postural control, balance, upper limb functionality and cognitive function. The results of the evaluation showed that exergames contain game activities that can be part of the rehabilitative treatment aimed at the prevention of the functional impairment of older people affected by COVID.

Changes and correlates of screen time in adults and children during the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis

“…Indeed, exergaming has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and increase physical activity levels, 136 and has been postulated as a potential source of physical activity during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in times of quarantine. 137,138 Primary studies regarding the efficacy and accessibility of exergaming as an alternative to sedentary based screen time behaviours during the COVID-19 pandemic are warranted.…”

An Exergame Solution for Personalized Multicomponent Training in Older Adults

“…The exergame operated in connection with a clinician portal that, besides allowing training specification, enabled the remote supervision of the training by the clinician. According to [81], exergames that fit older adults' characteristics and needs can be used to counteract the consequences of confinement and hospitalization, such as increased vulnerability, decreased functional capacity, and dependency. VITAAL may also find application in these contexts.…”

“If I want to be able to keep going, I must be active.” Supporting Remote Physical Activity Programming for Older Adults during COVID-19 and Beyond: a mixed-methods study

“…Adopting exergames to encourage physical activity participation in older adults has shown promising effects to augment older adults' physical and mental well-being (129)(130)(131)(132)(133)(134). Having access to a range of exercise supports -either through conventional methods and/or exergame platforms -can help to increase interest compared to a singular option, further promoting at-home exercise participation and adherence among older adults.…”