Effectiveness of Exergames on Cognitive, Social Functionamong Chronic Schizophrenia

Effectiveness of Exergames on Cognitive, Social Function and Sugar Control Among Chronic Schizophrenia Patients With Diabetes Mellitus in Taiwan

An experimental study with random assignment will be adopted. The participants from 2 hospitals will be assigned to two groups: experimental group (n=77), and control group (n=77). Experimental group, in addition to scheduled activities, will be provided with the "individual brain training exergames (a program for improving cognitive function and eye-hand coordination)" three times a week and 30 minutes each time. The control group will be maintained with their scheduled activities in daycare as usual. Behavioral intentions, cognitive function, social function, and hand-eye coordination will be measured at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 weeks.

In the first year, an experimental study with random assignment will be adopted. The participants from 2 hospitals will be assigned to two groups: experimental group (n=77), and control group (n=77). Experimental group, in addition to scheduled activities, will be provided with the "individual brain training exergames (a program for improving cognitive function and eye-hand coordination)" three times a week and 30 minutes each time. The control group will be maintained with their scheduled activities in daycare as usual. Behavioral intentions, cognitive function and hand-eye coordination will be measured at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 weeks.

In the second year, the investigators continue first year study, the experimental group will be provided with the "team cooperation training exergames (a new program for improving sugar control, cognitive and social function)" three times a week and 30 minutes each time. The control group will still be maintained with their scheduled activities in daycare as usual. Cognitive and social function and related physiological indices (muscle mass, fasting blood sugar, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and reduction body fat will be measured before intervention and at 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 weeks.

In the third year, in the first three months, the investigators will use the concept of "empowerment" to design a seed program for training 2-3 patients to be "exergame instructors". Experimental group A will be provided with the "team cooperation exergames" three times a week and 30 minutes each time by research team. Experimental group B will be provided with the "team cooperation exergames (teamwork and exercise)" three times a week and 30 minutes each time by "exergame seed ". The control group will be maintained with their scheduled activities in daycare as usual. Cognitive and social function, and related physiological indices will be measured at 0 3, 6, 9, 12 weeks.

The investigators expect this research project can improve the cognitive, social function and sugar control among chronic schizophrenia patients with diabetes mellitus, and the "exergames" can be extended.

Inclusion Criteria:

• schizophrenia
• aged 20-65 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• Violence or suicidal behavior
• Dementia