Interactive video dance games for healthy older adults

• Published in: The Journal of nutrition, health & aging Vol. 14; no. 10; pp. 850 - 852
• Main Authors: Studenski, Stephanie, Perera, S., Hile, E., Keller, V., Spadola-Bogard, J., Garcia, J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Paris Springer-Verlag 01.12.2010; Springer; Springer Nature B.V
• Subjects: Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Aging; Biological and medical sciences; Body Mass Index; Dancing - education; Dancing - psychology; Feasibility Studies; Feeding. Feeding behavior; Female; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Geriatric Assessment; Geriatrics/Gerontology; Health Promotion - methods; Health Status; Housing for the Elderly; Humans; Male; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Motor Activity; Neurosciences; Nutrition; Patient Compliance - psychology; Primary Care Medicine; Quality of Life - psychology; Quality of Life Research; Self Report; Social Participation - psychology; Vertebrates: anatomy and physiology, studies on body, several organs or systems; Video Games - adverse effects; Aging; exercise; video game; dance; Human; Physical exercise; Video game; Ageing; Metabolic diseases; Elderly
• ISSN: 1279-7707; 1760-4788
• DOI: 10.1007/s12603-010-0119-5

Background Physical activity promotes health in older adults but participation rates are low. Interactive video dance games can increase activity in young persons but have not been designed for use with older adults. The purpose of this research was to evaluate healthy older adults’ interest and participation in a dance game adapted for an older user. Methods Healthy older adults were recruited from 3 senior living settings and offered three months of training and supervision using a video dance game designed for older people. Before and after the program, data was collected on vital signs, physical function and self reported quality of life. Feedback was obtained during and after training. Results Of 36 persons who entered (mean age 80.1 + 5.4 years, 83 % female), 25 completed the study. Completers were healthier than noncompleters. Completers showed gains in narrow walk time, self-reported balance confidence and mental health. While there were no serious adverse events, 4 of 11 noncompleters withdrew due to musculoskeletal complaints. Conclusions Adapted Interactive video dance is feasible for some healthy older adults and may help achieve physical activity goals.