The effect of active video games on the parameters of balance, cognitive function and quality of life in elderly

Object of study: elderly balance, cognitive function and quality of life through active video games. Relevance ofthe study: Aging has thenegative effect on the structure and functions of central nervous system. It directly affects balance and gait (Granacher et al, 2012). Changes of the cognitive function are related to depression, low self-esteem and poor quality of life (Torres, A., 2008). Interactive gaming systems have the potential to help rehabilitate patients with musculoskeletal conditions (Wikstrom, 2012). Though certain systems (Wii Fit balance) could not be used for balance progress measuring, but could be the useful tool for rehabilitation. It is stated that ICT application for elderly could improve social activity, quality of life and reduce symptoms of depression. Some scientific studies claim that active video games improve reaction time, cognitive function, visual-motor coordination, attention, concentration and self-esteem in elderly (Torres, 2008; Chao et al, 2014).However the further studies are needed to analyze the effect, duration, type of video games applied in rehabilitation. Aim of the study: to define the effect of active video games on the parameters of balance, cognitive function and quality of life in elderly. Hypothesis of the study: physiotherapy programme including active video games will be more effective than conventional physiotherapy programme. Goals of study: 1. To identify and compare the balance of subjects before active video games and physical therapy program and after them. 2. To identify and compare the cognitive function of subjects before active video games and physicl therapy program and after them. 3. To identify and compare the quality of life before active fideo games and physical therapy program and after them. 4. To determine relationship among balance, cognitive function and quality of life before active video games and physical therapy program and after them. Methods and organization of study: The study involved 17 elderly people. They were randomly divided into two groups: physical therapy group (briefly, PT) (n8, mean age 68,33 ± 6,00 years) and active video games group (briefly, AVG) (n9, mean age 69,25±5,34 years). The study was performed at 2015 in october – december in the department of Biomedical Panevezys Collegephysical therapy room. AVG group was applied 3 times per week 10 weeks of active video games, PT group – 3 times per week 10 weeks was applied exercise program. Balance (Berg scale, Up and Go test) cognitive function (MMSE) and quality of life (WHOQOL-100) were assessed before and after the intervention. Conclucions: 1. Active video games did not affect the balance of subjects, while the usual physical therapy significantly improved the balance. 2. The 10 -week active video games and the usual kieziterapija did not have a material impact on older people's mental condition, but ordinary physical therapy statistically a significantly reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms. 3. 10 weeks of active video games and the usual physical therapy had no significant effect on older people's quality of life. 4. Older subjects balance, cognitive function and quality of life are linked directly to strong ties