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Usefulness of exergames for bettering mobility and balance in geriatrics

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Created On: 31/08/2020

Usefulness of exergames for bettering mobility and balance in geriatrics

This systematic review explored the effectiveness of exergames on mobility and balance in geriatric population.

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Key take away

Exergaming is a fun, appealing, and interactive exercise form. In this review, given the increasing use of exergames in geriatric rehabilitation, exergames were found to improve balance and mobility in older adults. Also, studies evaluating mobility with TUG found optimistic effects of exergames. This is significant as elders who are able to complete TUG in <10 secs. are less prone to falls.

Background

This systematic review explored the effectiveness of exergames on mobility and balance in geriatric population.

Method

The systematic reviews were in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, EMBASE, PEDro, CINAHL, and INSPEC database were searched from the beginning. The randomized controlled trials concerning the effects of exergames on balance or mobility of older adults without neurological conditions, compared to no intervention or health education were evaluated. An almost perfect accord between the authors was perceived in connection with interrater reliability of trial selection (kappa = 0.84; P < 0.001). Descriptive analysis of the quantitative data was performed to review the evidence.

Result

All in all, 12 trials comparing exergames with no intervention were considered ater assessment of 822 records.These trials had 1520 older adults (mean age of 76 ± 6 years in experimental group and 76 ± 5 years for control group). As per the quantitative synthesis, significant improvements in balance and mobility based on the center of pressure sway (SMD = − 0.89), Berg Balance Scale (MD = 2.15), and on Timed Up and Go (TUG) test (MD = − 2.48) were observed.

Conclusion

Exergames has been found to be useful in improving mobility and balance in geriatric population without neurological disorders and encourage patients to keep perform balance exercises. Future, high quality studies with standardized evaluation protocols are crucial to better the strength of the evidence.