Exergame-Based Training to Promote Mobility and Cognitive Function in Older Adults: A Proof-of-Concept Study

Background: Traditional training methods often lack motivational appeal, resulting in poor adherence. This proof-of-concept study examines the effects of a balance training system on cognitive and motoric function in community-dwelling older adults (CD) as well as in patients in geriatric rehabilitation (GR). Methods: The CD sample consisted of 12 participants (4 male, 8 female, age: 70.9±4.1 years, intervention: 2x/week 20–25-min. for six weeks). 15 patients in GR were included (10 women, 5 men, age: 84.7±4.2 years; intervention: 5x/week 20–25 min. 3 weeks). Prae- and post-assessments included Montreal Cognitive Assessment test (MoCA), Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) under single- (ST) and dual-task (DT) conditions, gait speed test (GSS) and Sit-to-Stand Test (STS). For the statistical analysis, a pre-post comparison was carried out within the groups and the effect size was determined. Results: The intervention groups demonstrated improvements across all tests after the balance training system (prae vs post: MoCA, CD: 25.7±2.4 vs. 27.7±1.9; GR: 23.2±4.0 vs. 24.3±3.4; TUG ST, CD: 5.9±0.6 s vs. 5.2±0.4 s; GR: 15.4±8.0 vs. 11.8±5.8 s ; TUG DT (costs) CD: 1.3±1.0 s vs. 1.0±0.8 s; GR 21.6±9.1 vs. 16.1±7.7 s; GSS: CD: 1.7±0.3 m/s vs. 2.0±0.2 m/s; GR: 0.9±0.2 vs. 1.0±0.2 m/s; STS: CD:13.7±2.5 to 15.7±2.8; GR: 11.5±7.0 vs. 16.2±8.3). All improvements despite GR TUG DT costs reached statistical significance. Discussion: The findings indicate positive effects of a balance training system on cognitive function and functional mobility in older adults. The study highlights the potential of exergames as an effective training method alternative for the elderly.