Screenshot of Nintendo Wii's Cyberbike Game. Image Credit: Pinyo Tutorial.

There is a new way to combine physical and mental exercise—two important factors to prevent accidents and increase mobility in older adults. The key to better mobility is in digital gaming that integrates physical exercise—also called “exergames.” These are interactive video games that allow older adults to maximize their body functions in digital environments, to their physical and cognitive benefit.

The study, conducted over two years, aims to identify the relationship between exergames and their improvement on the health of adults 50 years or older. And the result? According to Dr. Anderson-Haley of the Health Aging and Neuropsychology Lab at the Union College in Schenectady, NY, the research shows that virtual gaming exercises, such as cybercycling, not only enhances physical wellness but also protects the cognitive function.

Exergames allow older adults to divert their attention in the 3D sceneries presented. Without aversive environmental factors present, older adults get to focus on the game and, ultimately, improve their well-being.

Unfortunatley, only 14% of adults between 65 to 74 years old ever get to do exergames. For those over 75 years old, only 7% engage in regular exergames.

The study was conducted among 101 older adults from 58 to 99 years old. They were made to ride stationary bikes with a virtual reality display in the backdrop, a 3-d tour, and a virtual race against a “ghost rider”. The participants then rode on the bike thrice a week.  Another group was made to ride a stationary bike without the virtual environment.

The researchers found that regular exercises in the cybercycle produced positive results in executive functions, such as planning, memory work, and problem solving—all after just a month in the cybercycles. Despite the fact that there was no difference in the two groups, the group which had a virtual gaming experience showed substantial cognitive benefit.

The inevitable conclusion, according to the study, is that older adults who choose interactive exergames will have the benefit of traditional exercise, plus better cognitive performance.