Exergaming improves strength and balance versus conventional therapy in healthy older adults

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of exergaming (EXG) compared to conventional therapies on muscle strength and balance in healthy older people. The analysis included 25 randomized controlled trials with a total of 2078 participants (mean age 71.5 ± 5.8 years, ≥80% female). The review assessed outcomes including timed up-and-go (TUG), 8-TUG, maximal isometric handgrip strength, and 30-second chair stand tests.

For the TUG test, exergaming showed significant improvements over conventional therapies with effect sizes ranging from ES = 1.42 to 2.56 based on console type and games, ES = 2.07 to 2.77 based on training dosage, and ES = 2.91 for training frequency of ≥3 sessions per week (all p < 0.05). The 30-second chair stand test also showed significant improvements favoring exergaming with effect sizes of ES = 1.42 to 2.49 for training dosage (p < 0.05). A meta-regression for the chair stand test found minutes per session predicted relapse (R = 0.43, p = 0.02).

Safety and tolerability data were not reported in the provided information. The review used PRISMA, TESTEX, Rob 2, and GRADE tools to assess methodological quality and certainty of evidence. Key limitations include the reporting of only relative effect sizes without absolute numbers, lack of safety data, and insufficient detail about the specific conventional therapies used as comparators. Fear of falling outcomes were not reported.

For clinical practice, this meta-analysis suggests exergaming may be an effective alternative to conventional therapies for improving physical function in healthy older adults. However, clinicians should interpret these findings cautiously given the lack of absolute improvement data and safety information. The large effect sizes indicate potential benefit, but implementation decisions should consider individual patient factors and available resources.