Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 8, 2026
07:27
Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
10.6K
E-ACTIVE AGING study protocol: Evaluating an exergame-based and multicomponent exercise program for
Paloma Lillo-Urzúa1, Jorge Ugarte-Llanten1, Gabriel Carreño-Zilmann2
1Escuela de Kinesiología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Católica Silva Henríquez, Santiago, Chile.
Frontiers in Physiology
|December 19, 2025
Summary
This study compares exergame training to traditional exercise for older adults at risk of falls. Exergames may improve balance and adherence more effectively than conventional programs.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Rehabilitation Science
- Digital Health
Background:
- Falls are a significant threat to older adults' health, leading to reduced mobility and independence.
- Individuals over 60, especially those with sensory impairments, face elevated fall risks.
- Innovative approaches like exergames show promise for improving balance and mitigating fall risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the efficacy of a supervised exergame intervention versus traditional training for fall prevention in community-dwelling older adults.
- To compare the effects of these interventions on balance, functional independence, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Main Methods:
- A 12-week randomized controlled trial involving 52 older adults (≥60 years).
- Participants were assigned to either an exergame group (Nintendo Switch®) or a traditional multicomponent training group.
- Both groups received supervised 1-hour sessions twice weekly, with blinded outcome assessments.
Main Results:
- Hypothesized improvements in functional and balance outcomes for both groups.
- Anticipated superior adherence and overall effects from the exergame intervention.
- Primary outcomes include fall risk, balance, functional independence, and cardiorespiratory fitness.
Conclusions:
- Exergame-based interventions offer a novel and potentially more effective approach to fall prevention in older adults.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the long-term benefits and broader applicability of exergames in geriatric care.
- This study contributes to understanding the role of technology in promoting healthy aging and maintaining independence.
