FallSensing Multiplayer Games for Fall Risk Prevention in Senior Care Centers

FallSensing Multiplayer Games for Fall Risk Prevention in Senior Care Centers

Fall prevention programs should include strength and balance training, home hazard assessment and intervention, vision assessment and referral and also medication review with modification/withdrawal. Evidence exists that a tailored exercise program can reduce falls by as much as 54%.

The FallSensing games software include 3 mini-games to be played by two teams with up to 3 players each will compete against each other alternately.

The players will perform an initial evaluation with FallSensing screening tool, 16 sessions of group games (2 times a week/8weeks) with FallSensing multiplayer games and a final evaluation also with FallSensing screening tool.

Both initial and final evaluation include six functional tests (Grip Strength, Timed Up and Go, 30 seconds Sit-to-Stand, Step test, 4 Stage Balance test "modified" and 10 meters Walking Speed) and a questionnaire concerning self-efficacy for Exercise.

Inclusion Criteria:

• adults aged 50 years or over;
• Community-dweller;
• independent to be standing and walking, with or without walking aids;
• interest to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• individuals with severe sensorial impairments (deafness or blindness)
• individuals with cognitive impairments which precludes the ability to comprehend the questionnaire, functional tests and exercises included in the protocol.