Exergaming delivery of a balance and fall prevention program for older adults: A feasibility study

Abstract

Objective Older adults are at high risk of falls and this problem calls for efficient and scalable interventions. This study investigated whether a motion capture system paired with balance training exergaming software is a feasible strategy to deliver therapeutic exercise to older adults in an aged care facility. Methods This study analyzed data from a quality improvement rehabilitation initiative. Two convenience samples of older adults were included: a usual care group ( n = 12), admitted to a rehabilitation hospital and receiving standard in-patient therapy 5×/week and the Evolv group ( n = 12), admitted to an aged care facility, prescribed exergaming 3×/week. All participants performed 30-minute exercise sessions based on a fall prevention program over 3 months. The Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and Tinetti Performance Oriented Mobility Assessment test were administered pre- and post-treatment. Results No adverse events were recorded during the interventions. Mean SPPB increase for Evolv participants was 2.25 ± 1.35 ( p < .001, CI for mean = 1.39 to 3.11, d = 1.66), compared with a non-significant change in the usual care group (mean increase = 2.25 ± 3.82, p = .066, CI for mean = −0.18 to 4.68, d = 0.59). Tinetti improvement was significant for the individuals receiving usual care (3.83 ± 2.82, p = .012, CI for mean = 1.01 to 6.66, d = 0.86) but there were no significant between-group differences in outcomes. Conclusions Exergaming with the Evolv system for balance and strength training may be a feasible strategy to improve physical function for older adults recovering in an aged care facility.

Use of serious games with older adults: systematic literature review

“…Preventing falls and motor rehabilitation are also two aspects that improve functional quality. The first is addressed in a study by Money et al (2019) and Ren et al (2022). These authors propose three research objectives: to describe a serious game called 'Falls Sensei'; to assess game usability from the perspective of older adults; and to explore user perceptions on the use of this exergame and to what extent risky behaviours are modified.…”

“…As the player moves through each space they must identify the dangers. Ren et al (2022) present Envolv, a specific exercise programme to work on fall prevention and balance for older adults. Designed as a feasible strategy to provide therapeutic exercise, it is based on a motion capture system combined with balance training exercise software.…”