A Comparison of Wii[superscript]TM Exergaming and Matter of Balance on Aspects of Balance and Activity Adherence in Older Adults

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Whitney M. Sauter (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Advisor

David P. Loy

Abstract: This study was conducted to determine the relative effect of fall prevention community-based education and video gaming-based exercise (exergaming) on measures of functional balance fall-efficacy activity adherence and perceived enjoyment in community-dwelling older adults (N= 36). To quantify functional balance and fall- efficacy the 8-foot Up-and-Go Test (UG) Multi-Directional Reach Test (MDRT) and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale were used. Adherence was measured by recording attendance rate figures at each session and a modified Experience Questionnaire was used at posttest to assess enjoyment in exergaming. Repeated-measures MANOVA test indicated no statistically significant effects by treatment group across time mainly due to the small sample size. Trends in both treatment groups indicated slightly improved mean UG and MDRT scores indicating improved functional balance performance when compared to control group. Post-study data also suggested that both treatment groups also demonstrated high levels of adherence and perceived enjoyment. Results support the effectiveness of the Nintendo Wii[superscript]TM and the fall prevention education program as a generationally appropriate intervention for promoting enjoyable participation in routine physical activity and fall prevention for community-dwelling older adults. 

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Date: 2012

Keywords

Aging, Exergaming, Fall prevention, Functional balance, Nintendo Wii[superscript]TM, Physical activity adherence

Subjects

Falls (Accidents) in old age--Prevention

Equilibrium (Physiology)

Exercise for older people

Nintendo Wii video games

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