The feasibility, acceptability and outcomes of exergaming among individuals with cancer: a systematic review

Abstract

BackgroundIndividuals with cancer have reduced quality of life, functionality, range of motion, strength, and an increase in pain and fatigue. Exergaming appears to be an effective rehabilitation tool for Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and post-stroke patients to improve functionality, balance and quality of life; however, the usefulness of exergaming in individuals with cancer is unknown. The aim of this systematic review is to describe exergaming interventions delivered to adults with a current or previous cancer diagnosis and to report the feasibility, acceptability and outcomes of such interventions.MethodsStudies reporting on exergaming interventions delivered to individuals with a current or previous cancer diagnosis were included. 12 electronic databases were searched. Eight articles (seven interventions) were identified. Data were extracted and assessed for quality by two reviewers.ResultsThree interventions were delivered at hospital, two at home, one at a clinical laboratory, and one did not report. Two interventions were delivered by a physiotherapist, two by an occupational therapist, and one by a nurse, research staff and an exercise physiologist. The Nintendo Wii was used in four of seven studies, whilst the remaining three used the IREX system, BrightArm Duo Rehabilitation System or a custom made exergame. Studies showed that most participants enjoyed the exergaming intervention, and would recommend their use, with some preferring exergaming over standard care interventions. Adherence rates and enjoyment appear greater during exergaming than standard care. Exergaming interventions appear to support improvements balance, function, physical activity levels, strength, fatigue, emotions, cognition and pain.ConclusionExergaming interventions delivered to individuals with cancer show great heterogeneity; differing in duration, frequency and gaming platform. The disease stage and severity of those included, and the outcome measures assessed also vary widely making it difficult to conclude its effectiveness at this time. However, adherence rates and enjoyment appear greater during exergaming compared to standard care, supporting the feasibility and acceptability of this type of intervention delivery for adults with cancer.

The Role of Technology in Adherence to Physical Activity Programs in Patients with Chronic Diseases Experiencing Fatigue: a Systematic Review

“…This systematic review includes eight studies, comprising 195 patients, 89 COPD [41, 45, 46, 48, 51], 39 cancer patients [51], 43 cancer survivors [55], and 24 patients with HF [53]. Mendoza et al recruited COPD patients with both I, II, III, and IV GOLD 2011 [56] classification [49].…”

“…For instance, human interface technology can reduce the gap between therapists and patients, who may feel more responsible to adhere when directly supervised [44]. Furthermore, technology tools offer the possibility for a more enjoyable and motivational approach to PA programs (e.g., exergaming) [44, 45]. Taken together, this evidence suggests the high potential of the monitoring and user-interface technology in promoting an active lifestyle in persons with disabilities and chronic diseases.…”

Effectiveness of Exergaming in Improving Cognitive and Physical Function in People With Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia: Systematic Review

“…The World Health Organization’s “Rehabilitation 2030” campaign launched in 2017 pointed out that rehabilitation programs should follow a holistic approach for chronic disease management, optimize independence, and prolong community engagement [ 75 ]. Because it is inexpensive [ 49 ], safe [ 55 , 56 ], and easy to use [ 53 ], exergaming can be performed unsupervised even for community-dwelling healthy older adults [ 76 , 77 ]. Exergaming interventions are gradually being used as a physical cognitive rehabilitation tool for elderly people with mild cognitive impairment or dementia living at home in the community.…”

“…Exergames have been gradually implemented in rehabilitation [ 37 , 38 ], education [ 39 ], and other fields [ 40 ], and have been widely accepted by a range of populations from children [ 41 , 42 ] to the elderly [ 43 , 44 ]; moreover, positive results were found for individuals with various diseases such as dementia [ 45 ], stroke [ 46 ], Parkinson disease [ 34 ], multiple sclerosis [ 47 ], cystic fibrosis [ 48 ], and cancer [ 49 ]. Recent studies have demonstrated the feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of exergaming in improving physical functions such as gait and balance [ 50 ], motion control [ 51 ], and exercise capacity [ 52 ].…”

Designing a Fantasy Bike-based Exergame to Foster Physical Activity

“…Fantasy is one lever to attract and motivate people to exercise. The ability of exergames to attract audience have been shown in some studies [6]; however, the point is to maintain mid-and long-term interest. In order to improve the retention rate, some studies use fantasy and combine physical activity with gaming to make physical exercise fun.…”