Six weeks of unsupervised Nintendo Wii Fit gaming is effective at improving balance in independent older adults

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of unsupervised Nintendo Wii Fit balance training in older adults. Methods: Forty-one older adults were recruited from local retirement villages and educational settings to participate in a six-week two-group repeated measures study. The Wii group (n = 19, 75 ± 6 years) undertook 30 min of unsupervised Wii balance gaming three times per week in their retirement village while the comparison group (n = 22, 74 ± 5 years) continued with their usual exercise program. Participants' balance abilities were assessed pre- and postintervention. Results: The Wii Fit group demonstrated significant improvements (P < .05) in timed up-and-go, left single-leg balance, lateral reach (left and right), and gait speed compared with the comparison group. Reported levels of enjoyment following game play increased during the study. Conclusion: Six weeks of unsupervised Wii balance training is an effective modality for improving balance in independent older adults.