Commercial and customized exergames improve balance in older persons in a community center: a pilot study

Introduction: Of all people over 65 years 30-50% fall at least once a year. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of falling significantly. However, older persons are often inactive, mainly because of a lack of motivation. Previous research has shown that playing exergames, or active video games (AVG) can improve the motivation to perform physical activity. Furthermore, several studies have found a positive influence of exergaming on older people’s balance and cognition. Most exergame studies have used commercial exergames, but these exergames are not tailored to the elderly population. It is hypothesized that customized exergames, which are specifically designed for older persons, might even be more effective. Method: In this study we tried to increase physical activity in older persons in a community center (N=17, mean age=76 years) by using exergames. We developped two programs: one program uses commercial KINECT exergames (Microsoft), one program uses customized MIRA exergames (MIRA rehab). We selected games that influence fall prevention risk indicators: balance, strength, mobility, flexibility, endurance and cognition. Game selection feedback was given by physiotherapists, and games were pretested by the population. We evaluated the feasibility of both exergame programs and its influence on participants’ balance, their fear of falling and cognition. Results: Balance improved in both exergame groups. Participants’ attitude towards physical activity also became more positive. Cognition and fear of falling did not improve. No differences were found between commercial and customized exergames.status: publishe