Comparison the effects of interactive video games and activity based approaches on mobility and general wellbeing in elderly

Due to the recent development in medical technology and medical care, life expectancy is increasing all over the world and geriatric rehabilitation is becoming increasingly important. The aim of this study is to assess the effectiveness of interactive video-games on mobility and wellbeing and compare them with activity-based approaches in geriatric population. 91 people living in Bahcelievler nursing home were evaluated and volunteers who meet the criteria included in the study. Participants were assigned to study groups according to their physical performance and preference. Group I participated in Nintendo Wii Fit Plus video-games program for 30 minutes two days a week totally for 8 weeks. Group II joined a physical activity program consisted of 10 minutes of stationary bicycle and 20 minutes of treadmill walking for the same duration. Participants were assessed for functional mobility and balance with "Timed Up and Go Test", "10 meter Walking Test", "Berg Balance Scale", for general wellbeing; "Hamilton Depression Scale" quality of life; with "World Health Organization- Quality of Life Short Form (WHOQOL-BREF)". Results were compared with 21,0 version of SPSS". At the end of the study, both programs were found to be effective in improving functional mobility, balance and general well-being (p<0.05)." In addition Nintendo Wii Fit was more effective especially in mobility and balance parameters compared to the physical activity group. It was concluded that it would be very useful to give more space to Nintendo Wii Fit and similar interactive video games as an alternative and complementary treatment tool in geriatric rehabilitation. Key Words: Video games, physical activity, elderly.