Citation

Padala KP, Padala PR, Lensing SY, Dennis RA, Bopp MM, Parkes CM, Garrison MK, Dubbert PM, Roberson PK, Sullivan DH. J. Aging Res. 2017; 2017: e4653635.

Affiliation

Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center, Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System, Little Rock, AR, USA; Department of Geriatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Hindawi)

DOI

10.1155/2017/4653635

PMID

28261500

PMCID

PMC5316445

Abstract

Background/Objectives. Balance problems are well-established modifiable risk factors for falls, which are common in older adults. The objective of this study was to establish the efficacy of a Wii-Fit interactive video-game-led physical exercise program to improve balance in older Veterans.

METHODS. A prospective randomized controlled parallel-group trial was conducted at Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Thirty community dwelling Veterans aged 68 (±6.7) years were randomized to either the exercise or control groups. The exercise group performed Wii-Fit program while the control group performed a computer-based cognitive program for 45 minutes, three days per week for 8-weeks. The primary (Berg Balance Scale (BBS)) and secondary outcomes (fear of falling, physical activity enjoyment, and quality of life) were measured at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.

RESULTS. Of 30 randomized subjects, 27 completed all aspects of the study protocol. There were no study-related adverse events. Intent-to-treat analysis showed a significantly greater improvement in BBS in the exercise group (6.0; 95% CI, 5.1-6.9) compared to the control group (0.5; 95% CI, -0.3-1.3) at 8 weeks (average intergroup difference (95% CI), 5.5 (4.3-6.7), p < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline.

CONCLUSION. This study establishes that the Wii-Fit exercise program is efficacious in improving balance in community dwelling older Veterans. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02190045.

Language: en