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Engaging older adults in technology to improve balance

conference contribution
posted on 2023-05-24, 13:10 authored by Marie-Louise BirdMarie-Louise Bird, Millar, J, Clark, BD, Whetton, SG, Smith, SA

Background: Enjoyment is a powerful predictor of adherence to physical activity and this may be used to improve Rarticipation in physical activities and subsequently improve a range of health parameters. Technology, in the form of 'exergaming' has potential, but perceptions of use and engagement of older adults with a range of technologies is unclear. This study aims to determine the perceptions of use of technology to improve health outcomes prior to and after using an exergame. A secondary aim was to determine if there were concurrent improvements in postural balance by participating in the intervention.

Method: Twenty-four participants aged between 55 and 82 years (mean age 70 ± 6 years) volunteered to participate in focus groups to determine perceptions of use of technology to assist with physical activity. This allowed development of a targeted 5 question survey by the research team. This survey was administered pre- and post a 5 week exergame intervention. Media-lateral sway range (eyes open and closed on a force platform) were also assessed pre and post intervention. Perceived enjoyment and game scores were recorded during the intervention. Pre-post scores were analysed using students test. A balance training exergame was chosen as the intervention.

Results: Significant increased awareness that exergames can assist with physical activity were recorded (all p > 0.05). High levels of enjoyment, participation in the intervention and increasing game scores over the duration of the intervention were recorded. Trends for improvement in eyes closed media-lateral sway range were recorded (improved by 1.0cm, p = 0.09).

History

Department/School

School of Health Sciences

Event title

6th Biennial Australian and New Zealand Falls Prevention Conference

Event Venue

Sydney Australia

Date of Event (Start Date)

2014-11-16

Date of Event (End Date)

2014-11-18

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Allied health therapies (excl. mental health services)

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    University Of Tasmania

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