An Exergame Concept for Improving Balance in Elderly People

Ather Nawaz, Mathilde Waerstad, Kine Omholt, Jorunn L. Helbostad, Beatrix Vereijken, Nina Skjæret, Lill Kristiansen

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    Abstract

    Video exercise games (exergames) are becoming increasingly popular among elderly people. Many elderly experience reduced balance and muscle strength which make them at increased risk of falling. Muscle strength and balance training are the key components for preventing function decline and falls at old age. Exergames that are to be used among elderly users should be specifically designed for this group of people. This study aims to design and evaluate an exergame concept developed to fit the need and preferences of elderly users. First, seven elderly people tested three commercially available exergames. Feedback from focus group interviews revealed that the design of the existing exergames should be simplified and more closely related to activities that can be associated with older people’s daily life. Based on the feedback a new exergame concept “in nature” was designed. The new exergame concept had a simple design, and included balance and muscle strengthening exercises related to real life activities. In the results of the workshop, the study provides eight design recommendations for exergame design for seniors.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationICTs for Improving Patients Rehabilitation Research Techniques : Second International Workshop, REHAB 2014, Oldenburg, Germany, May 20-23, 2014, Revised Selected Papers
    EditorsHabib M. Fardoun, Victor M R. Penichet, Daniyal M. Alghazzawi
    Place of PublicationBerlin
    PublisherSpringer
    Publication date2015
    Pages55-67
    ISBN (Print)9783662486443
    ISBN (Electronic)9783662486450
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2015
    Event2nd International Workshop on ICTs for improving Patients Rehabilitation Research Techniques. REHAB 2014 - Oldenburg, Germany
    Duration: 20 May 201423 May 2015
    Conference number: 2
    http://www.rehab-workshop.org/2014/

    Workshop

    Workshop2nd International Workshop on ICTs for improving Patients Rehabilitation Research Techniques. REHAB 2014
    Number2
    Country/TerritoryGermany
    CityOldenburg
    Period20/05/201423/05/2015
    Internet address
    SeriesCommunications in Computer and Information Science
    Volume515
    ISSN1865-0929

    Keywords

    • Exergames
    • Design
    • Seniors
    • Balance
    • Falls
    • Elderly

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