A randomised controlled pilot study of a Nintendo Ring Fit Adventure™ balance and strengthening exercise program in community‐dwelling older adults with a history of falls

• Published in: Australasian journal on ageing 2024-09, Vol.43 (3), p.533-544
• Main Authors: Chan, Wayne Lap Sun, Chan, Cody Wing Lam, Chan, Howard Ho Wing, Chan, Kelvin Chi Kin, Chan, Jerry Sai Kit, Chan, Oscar Lok Wang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: accidental falls; exergaming; muscle strength; pilot projects; postural balance
• ISSN: 1440-6381; 1741-6612; 1741-6612
• DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13297

Objectives This pilot study examined the feasibility, acceptability, and effects of a Nintendo Ring Fit Adventure™‐based balance and muscle strengthening exercise program in community‐dwelling older adults with a history of falls. Methods Older adults who have had at least one fall in the past year were randomly assigned to an experimental (n = 21) or control group (n = 21). The experimental group performed 16 exercise sessions in total, lasting 60 min each, twice a week for 8 weeks, whereas the control group received usual care. Feasibility was evaluated based on the scores of participants in the exercises. Acceptance was evaluated using a customised questionnaire examining participants' self‐perceived enjoyment, feasibility and improvements. Clinical outcomes including balance (Mini‐BESTest), lower limb muscle strength (Five‐Time Sit‐to‐Stand test), mobility (Timed‐Up and Go test), dual‐task ability (Timed‐Up and Go test—Dual Task), fear of falling (Icon‐FES) and executive function (Color Trails Test) were evaluated at baseline and 8 weeks. Results Thirty‐one participants (74%) finished the 8‐week assessment. The experimental group significantly improved their scores in six out of eight exercises (all p