Validity and Reliability of the Exergame Enjoyment Questionnaire (EEQ) in Turkish

Validity and Reliability of the Exergame Enjoyment Questionnaire (EEQ) in a Geriatric Population in Turkish

The aim of this research is to adapt the Exergame Enjoyment Questionnaire (EEQ) into Turkish and to evaluate its suitability for the Turkish elderly population through validity and reliability analyses. After the cultural adaptation process is completed, the construct validity of the scale will be evaluated using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses; its reliability will be assessed through internal consistency coefficients (Cronbach's alpha) and test-retest reliability over time (ICC). Accordingly, the study aims to provide a valid and reliable assessment tool for clinicians and researchers who wish to evaluate individual experiences in exergaming-based interventions.

While regular exercise plays a critical role in maintaining the physical and cognitive health of the growing elderly population, barriers such as lack of motivation, physical limitations, and boredom restrict participation in exercise among the elderly. Multimodal "exergaming" applications, which combine exercise and gamification dynamics, offer an innovative and enjoyable alternative that enhances the motivation, balance, cognitive skills, and coordination of older individuals. The long-term success of exergaming interventions and the sustainability of participation should be evaluated not only by physical outcomes but also by psychosocial motivational parameters such as enjoyment, flow, and sense of control derived from the game. The Exergame Experience Questionnaire (EEQ) stands out in the literature for measuring this experience. However, the EEQ scale, in its current form, is only valid within the English-speaking cultural context. Despite the increasing prevalence of exergaming applications in Türkiye, the lack of a psychometrically robust and culturally adapted measurement tool capable of evaluating this experience in a multidimensional way hinders the individualization of interventions and the measurement of their effectiveness. This study aims to address this deficiency.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being 65 years of age or older
• Having participated in an exergaming application at least once before
• Not having a physical, sensory or cognitive disability that would prevent participation in the exergaming application
• Agreeing to participate voluntarily and providing informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Individuals with active neurological, vestibular, or psychiatric disorders
2. Individuals diagnosed with moderate or severe cognitive impairment (MMSE < 24 and/or MoCA < 21)
3. Individuals with severe hearing or vision loss
4. Individuals who are physically unable to participate in exergaming due to cardiopulmonary or orthopedic reasons
5. Individuals with no prior exergaming experience
6. Individuals who experience significant communication difficulties
7. Participants who do not sign the voluntary consent form