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Exergames for falls prevention in sheltered homes: a feasibility study
Emma Stanmore1,2,3,4, Charlotte Eost-Telling1,5, Wytske Meekes6
1School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
Frontiers in Public Health
|July 8, 2024
Summary
Exergaming is a feasible and acceptable falls prevention tool for older adults in sheltered housing. While participants enjoyed exergames, technical support is needed for independent use.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Technology
- Public Health
Background:
- Falls prevention is critical for older adults, with significant healthcare costs.
- Telerehabilitation technologies like exergaming offer engaging exercise solutions.
- Sheltered housing settings present unique challenges for implementing new interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of exergaming for falls prevention in sheltered housing.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of a supervised exergaming program compared to usual care.
Main Methods:
- A 6-week mixed-methods study in two sheltered housing facilities.
- Intervention group received supervised exergaming (MIRA); control group received usual care.
- Feasibility, usability (System Usability Scale), and acceptability were measured via quantitative and qualitative data.
Main Results:
- Exergaming significantly increased weekly exercise duration in the intervention group.
- High adherence rates (92% completion) and positive participant feedback on enjoyment and motivation.
- Moderate usability scores (SUS=63) indicated a need for technical support for independent use.
Conclusions:
- Exergaming is a feasible and well-received intervention for falls prevention in sheltered housing.
- Motivational and social benefits were highlighted, complementing traditional care.
- Further research should address technical support needs for wider adoption.
