Comparative Effects Of Exergaming And Otago Exercise On Anticipatory Postural Control And Sensory Integration In Older Adults

Summary

This study explores whether non-immersive, interactive Exergaming using Xbox Kinect can go beyond conventional exercise by actively training the brain and body to react faster, balance smarter, and move more confidently. Through dynamic games like Reflex Ridge and 20,000 Leaks, we aim to stimulate internal perturbations and real-time Sensory Integration, something Otago doesn't directly target.

In this randomized controlled trial, 36 older adults (aged 55+) will be assigned to either the Exergaming or Otago group. Both groups will receive 6 weeks of supervised balance training (3x/week, 30 mins/session). Primary outcomes include Sensory Integration, measured using modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction and Balance (mCTSIB) and Anticipatory postural control assessed through Limits of Stability (LOS) test. Timed up and Go (TUG) will capture functional mobility, which will serve as the secondary outcome in this study.

Both mCTSIB and LOS will be administered using the Postural Stability System of Biodex, a reliable and valid computerized platform designed to objectively quantify postural control under varying sensory conditions.

With evidence-based outcome tools and rigorous analysis, this project doesn't just aim to compare two programs, it's about challenging tradition, modernizing rehab, and making balance training smarter, safer, and more engaging for the elders we serve.

This research could be a leap forward in community-based fall prevention and a step toward a more responsive, personalized future in Neurological Rehabilitation.

Conditions

• Exergaming
• Exercise Therapy
• Frail Elderly
• Healthy Aging
• Mobility Limitation
• Muscle Strength
• Postural Balance
• Proprioception

Interventions

PROCEDURE

Otago Exercise Program

It will consist of 5 Strengthening Exercises, 12 Progressive Balance Exercises and Walking Training (as tolerated). Protocol will include 3 sessions per week 30 minutes per session for total of 6 weeks Strength exercises will be progressed by increasing repetitions, weight, or duration. Balance tasks will be made challenging by reducing upper limb support, altering base of support, or eyes closing. Progression will be adjusted weekly based on performance and comfort. All sessions will be delivered under physiotherapist supervision using the official OEP manual.

PROCEDURE

Exergaming

This intervention involves non-immersive exergaming using the Xbox Kinect system. Games Included are 20,000 Leaks, Reflex Ridge, River Rush and Rally Ball. Games will be played 3 times per week for 30 minutes for total of 6 weeks. Three difficulty levels include Basic, Intermediate and Advance. Progression based on participant performance, game scores (gold/silver pins, stars), and therapist observation. For first three weeks 2/3 Game Plays and last three weeks there will be 4/5 game plays. Sessions will be supervised one-on-one by a physiotherapist. Participant performance, fatigue, and safety will be monitored throughout the session.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Foundation University Islamabad

  lead OTHER

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

NONE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

55 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2025-11-18

Primary Completion

2026-06-01

Completion

2026-07-01

Countries

• Pakistan

Study Locations