Comparison of the effects of physical activity and virtual reality training on physical function, cognition and quality of life in patients with schizophrenia

This thesis aims to compare the effects of Physical Activity (PA) and Virtual Reality (VR) training on physical function, cognition, and quality of life in patients with schizophrenia (PwS). The study was conducted over 12 Weeks and included three groups: a VR group (n=15), a PA group (n=12), and a Control group. The primary outcome measures focused on physical function, cognition, and quality of life using the SF-36 questionnaire. The results revealed significant differences in several areas. The PA group experienced a significant decrease in sedentary time compared to their baseline measurements (p<0.05) and exhibited a significant increase in exercise time compared to their baseline measurements (p<0.05). The VR intervention had a positive impact on the physical health of the participants, as indicated by improved Physical Component Summary (PCS) scores (p<0.05). Furthermore, the VR group showed statistically higher average post-test right-hand dynamometer scores than pre-test scores (p<0.05). Both the VR and PA groups showed statistically higher mean Sit-to-Stand (SST) measurements in the post-test compared to the other groups (p<0.05). In addition, in the VR and PA groups, the Timed Up and Go (TUG) averages obtained in the post-test were statistically lower than the pre-test time (p<0.05). Moreover, in the VR and Control groups, the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT) Rounds mean was statistically higher than the pre-test time (p<0.05). Within the PA group, the average Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS) scores significantly decreased after 12 weeks (p<0.05). Additionally, in the PA group, the average Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score in the post-test was statistically higher than in the pre-test (p<0.05). These findings suggest that both PA and VR interventions have beneficial effects on physical function, cognition, and quality of life in PwS. Specifically, the PA intervention reduced sedentary behavior and increased exercise time (p<0.05), while the VR intervention positively impacted physical health (p<0.05). The results highlight the importance of incorporating PA and VR interventions to enhance the well-being of individuals with schizophrenia. Further research and implementation of these interventions could contribute to improving the overall care and management of PwS. Keywords: schizophrenia, Nintendo Wii Fit, interactive gaming, physical engagement, immersion, balance, Quality of Life, therapeutic intervention.