Community-based exergaming program increases physical activity and perceived wellness in older adults

• Published in: Journal of aging and physical activity 2014-07, Vol.22 (3), p.364-371
• Main Authors: Strand, Kara A, Francis, Sarah L, Margrett, Jennifer A, Franke, Warren D, Peterson, Marc J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Attitude to Health; Exercise; Exercise - physiology; Female; Health Promotion - methods; Health status; Humans; Inactive; Intergenerational Relations; Male; Middle Aged; Motor Activity - physiology; Older people; Parent attitudes; Participation; Physical activity; Pilot Projects; Play Therapy - methods; Program Development; Program Evaluation; Rural communities; Rural Population; Sedentary; Self Report; Socialization; Sociodemographics; Video Games; Wellness programs
• ISSN: 1063-8652; 1543-267X
• DOI: 10.1123/japa.2012-0302

Exergaming may be an effective strategy to increase physical activity participation among rural older adults. This pilot project examined the effects of a 24-wk exergaming and wellness program (8 wk onsite exergaming, 16-wk wellness newsletter intervention) on physical activity participation and subjective health in 46 rural older adults. Sociodemographic data and self-reported physical activity were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Cochran's Q, respectively. Qualitative data were reviewed, categorized on the basis of theme, and tabulated for frequency. Increased physical activity and perceived health were the most reported perceived positive changes. Significant increases in physical activity participation were maintained among participants who were physically inactive at baseline. Best-liked features were physical activity and socialization. Findings suggest that this pilot exergaming and wellness program is effective in increasing physical activity in sedentary rural older adults, increasing socialization, and increasing subjective physical health among rural older adults.