Evidence-Based Exergames for Falls Prevention in Older People (v.3)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Acceptability, feasibility and usability of postural stability Exergames for older adults residing in sheltered housing or care homes to improve function and prevent falls.
IRAS ID
168679
Contact name
Emma Stanmore
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
The University of Manchester (Associate Vice-President [Research Integrity])
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 0 days
Research summary
Fall-related injuries are the largest cause of accidental death in older people across Europe with 30% of people aged 65 and older, and 50% of people aged 80 and over falling at least once per year. Those at greatest risk for falls and hip fractures are residents of long-term care facilities, accounting for 52% of all fall-related hospital admissions.
There is a robust body of evidence that demonstrates that specific strength/balance exercises can reduce falls (Gillespie et. al. 2012). However, there is low uptake and adherence to exercise in the care home setting without support from therapists. Current care delivery is ineffective as treatment programmes are time limited, costly, may be inaccessible to older people in care homes and there are shortages of trained professionals to deliver the treatment.
This feasibility study will investigate issues concerning the introduction of strength/balance Exergames (exercise and computer games that use body movements as controls) developed to improve function, prevent falls and increase exercise adherence for older people in the care home setting. Our proposal incorporates postural stability Exergames that was developed with users based on best evidence strength and balance exercise (OTAGO and Postural Stability), currently used by therapists, safe for older people (low impact, joint protective, improve function) and can be used in the care home setting (see video at http://www.mirarehab.com/).
The user-friendly Exergames have the advantage of monitoring real time adherence (via motion tracking and detection) and progression, actively interacting with the user, and increasing motivation.
The research protocol will consist of: questionnaires administered to care home residents and therapists pre- and post-study; observation of usual practice in care homes; a pilot study using a two-group randomized design (Exergame group vs. usual care); and assessments at baseline, 6 weeks and 12 weeks using a combination of questionnaires, physical examination, and interviews.
REC name
Wales REC 7
REC reference
15/WA/0042
Date of REC Opinion
5 Feb 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion