Can Exergames be used to improve the physical abilities of older male care home residents in Saudi Arabia?

Abstract

Background: MIRA-Rehab-Exergames activities are based on the OTAGO and FaME exercise programmes, which have been shown to minimise the likelihood of falling in older people. It’s applications are recognised as a practical approach to overcoming training barriers, which ultimately leads to advancements in older individuals' well-being. Aim: This study aimed to test the feasibility of Exergames for older men at a care home. Methods: Following the Medical Research Council (MRC) guidance and framework for complex interventions, A feasibility RCT recruited male older adults 65 years and older. They were randomised into two groups. The control group received a Chair-Based Training (CBT) booklet and the intervention group received MIRA-Rehab-Exergames sessions for six weeks followed by another six weeks for follow up. The outcome measures were related to feasibility outcome measures (recruitment, data collection, attrition, retention, adherence, resources, acceptability, and usability), in addition to other outcome measures (e.g. Berg Balance Scale, quality of life, functional reach test, geriatric depression scale, timed up and go test, fear of fall, and short physical performance battery test) at three point assessments. Results: Thirty older male participants were randomised into CG (n = 16) and IG (n = 14). The mean age was 78.70 (SD 10.63). No male participants withdrew during the data collection period. However, due to Covid-19 outbreak, the researcher cancelled the last week of the Exergaming. On one hand, the recruitment and attrition shows no male participants withdrew during the first six weeks. The retention rate was high. Regarding the data collection, all the male participants in both groups successfully completed the three assessments. Adherence was measured based on the attendance of the planned Exergames sessions. Adherence to the IG seems low compared to the adherence to CG. The Exergames seem to be safe, feasible, usable, and acceptable. On the other hand, the statistics showed that only balance, fear of falling, and quality of life were improved through three points scales. Later, the male participants provided some insights and opinions related to the usability and suitability of Exergames for some required modifications. Conclusion: MIRA-Rehab-Exergames was investigated for the older men population in the context of a single care home centre in the KSA. It shows the possibility of applying such novel technology in this fast developing country.