Efficacy of Wii-Fit on Static and Dynamic Balance in Community Dwelling Older Veterans: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial

Kalpana P Padala, Prasad R Padala, Shelly Y Lensing, Richard A Dennis, Melinda M Bopp, Christopher M Parkes, Mark K Garrison, Patricia M Dubbert, Paula K Roberson, Dennis H Sullivan, Kalpana P Padala, Prasad R Padala, Shelly Y Lensing, Richard A Dennis, Melinda M Bopp, Christopher M Parkes, Mark K Garrison, Patricia M Dubbert, Paula K Roberson, Dennis H Sullivan

Abstract

Background/Objectives. Balance problems are well-established modifiable risk factors for falls, which are common in older adults. The objective of this study was to establish the efficacy of a Wii-Fit interactive video-game-led physical exercise program to improve balance in older Veterans. Methods. A prospective randomized controlled parallel-group trial was conducted at Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Thirty community dwelling Veterans aged 68 (±6.7) years were randomized to either the exercise or control groups. The exercise group performed Wii-Fit program while the control group performed a computer-based cognitive program for 45 minutes, three days per week for 8-weeks. The primary (Berg Balance Scale (BBS)) and secondary outcomes (fear of falling, physical activity enjoyment, and quality of life) were measured at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Results. Of 30 randomized subjects, 27 completed all aspects of the study protocol. There were no study-related adverse events. Intent-to-treat analysis showed a significantly greater improvement in BBS in the exercise group (6.0; 95% CI, 5.1-6.9) compared to the control group (0.5; 95% CI, -0.3-1.3) at 8 weeks (average intergroup difference (95% CI), 5.5 (4.3-6.7), p < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline. Conclusion. This study establishes that the Wii-Fit exercise program is efficacious in improving balance in community dwelling older Veterans. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier NCT02190045.

Conflict of interest statement

There is no financial conflict of interests or personal conflict of interests relevant to the submitted manuscript for any authors.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Screening, enrollment, and participation.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Berg Balance Scale over time in exercise and control groups (observed mean ± 2SE).

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