A randomized controlled feasibility study of a Nintendo RingFit-based exercise program to improve balance and muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults with a history of falls

Wayne LS Chan, Wing Lam Chan, Ho Wing Chan, Sai Kit Chan, Lok Wang Chan, Chi Kin Chan

Research output: Unpublished conference presentation (presented paper, abstract, poster)PosterAcademic researchpeer-review

Abstract

Aims To examine the feasibility, safety and acceptability of a Nintendo RingFit-augmented exercise program to improve balance and muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults with a history of falls.


Methods
Forty-three older adults with at least one fall in the past year were randomly assigned to a Nintendo RingFit-augmented exercise (NRE) group or a control (CON) group. The NRE group received an 8-week balance and muscle strengthening exercise program using the Nintendo RingFit, while the CON group received usual care. The attendance rate, adverse events and acceptance of the NRE group based on a questionnaire designed for this study were assessed. The physical, cognitive and psychological function of the participants in the two groups were evaluated and compared at 8 weeks.

Results
The attendance rate of the NRE group was 88%. No adverse event related to the exercise training was reported. The participants in the NRE generally agreed that the exercise program was enjoyable and feasible, and they perceived that the program could improve their physical function and reduce their risk of falls. Compared to the CON group, the NRE group had a significant improvement in the anticipatory subscore of the Mini-Balance Evaluation Systems Test with a moderate to large effect size (NRE = 0.85 [0.28]; CON = -0.28 [0.25]; p = .02; Partial eta squared = 0.19).

Conclusions
The Nintendo RingFit-based exercise program was feasible, safe, acceptable, and potentially effective to improve balance in community-dwelling older fallers. Further study is warranted to evaluate the effects of the exercise program using a larger sample of older adults.
Original languageEnglish
Publication statusPublished - 26 Oct 2023
EventHealthy Ageing Conference 2023 - Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Duration: 26 Oct 202327 Oct 2023

Conference

ConferenceHealthy Ageing Conference 2023
Country/TerritoryHong Kong
CityHong Kong
Period26/10/2327/10/23

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  • Outstanding poster presentation award

    Chan, C. W. L. (Recipient), Chan, H. H. W. (Recipient), Chan, J. S. K. (Recipient), Chan, O. L. W. (Recipient), Chan, K. C. K. (Recipient) & Chan, W. L. (Supervisor), 14 Jun 2023

    Prize: Prize (research)

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