The efficacy of exergames on balance and reducing falls in older adults: A narrative review

Abstract

Falls in older adults are a very important health concern worldwide with enormous social and economic ramifications. The advancement of medical technology and the creation and dissemination of exergames has gained more and more ground in recent decades as it combines exercise with a pleasant environment. However, their efficacy over conventional exercise methods is under investigation. The aim of this review is to present recent research data regarding the efficacy of exergames in older adults with balance deficits who experience falls. Method: The PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched with the following keywords: exergames, elderly falls, balance and Exercise. Articles that were clinical studies and had been published in the last four years were selected. Six clinical studies were found to meet the criteria and were included in the review. The total sample was 287 older adults. Results: Most clinical studies concluded that exergame rehabilitation is effective, enjoyable, and well received by older adults. In two studies, a combination with conventional physical therapy was reported to show better results. Discussion - Conclusions: The results of our review provide evidence that interventions based on virtual reality and exergames are effective in improving balance and reducing the number of falls in older adults. Our review also derives positive results of exergames effects compared to conventional physical therapy. Exergames-based intervention is cost-effective, safe, without adverse effects, and appears able to cause adaptations in balance and functional ability in older adults, thus reducing the risk of falls. Their application is proposed for the training of older adults in future interventions.