Using Nintendo Wii to Reduce Falls in Older Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Kwok Boon Chong, Mamun Kaysar, Chandran Manju, Wong Chek Hooi
Primary Institution: Singapore General Hospital
Hypothesis
The Nintendo Wii group intervention is more effective than the gym-based group intervention in improving fall efficacy and self-reported falls in the older adult aged 60 and above.
Conclusion
The study aims to determine if the Nintendo Wii can effectively reduce falls and fear of falling in moderately frail older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Falls are common in frail older adults and often result in injuries and hospitalisation.
- The Nintendo Wii has been shown to improve lower limb strength and balance.
- Fear of falling significantly contributes to functional decline in older adults.
- The study will investigate if the interventions can successfully reduce falls.
- The Nintendo Wii system has been postulated to be effective in improving functional performance.
Takeaway
This study is trying to see if playing games on a Nintendo Wii can help older people feel less scared of falling and actually fall less often.
Methodology
This is a parallel prospective single-blind randomised active-control trial comparing the Nintendo WiiActive programme against standard gym-based rehabilitation.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the non-blinding of participants and the subjective nature of self-reported falls.
Limitations
The study may have limitations related to participant adherence and the specific nature of the interventions.
Participant Demographics
Participants are older adults aged 60 and above, both fallers and non-fallers, recruited from a hospital outpatient clinic.
Statistical Information
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website