Leveraging Extended Reality Exergaming and Telehealth to Improve Physical Activity and Health in Children With Disabilities

Leveraging Extended Reality Exergaming and Telehealth to Improve Physical Activity and Health in Children With Disabilities

This phase II RCT evaluates the efficacy of a telehealth-delivered extended reality (XR) exergaming intervention on physical activity, cardiometabolic health, and physical fitness in physically inactive children with cerebral palsy (ages 10 to 17). A total of 130 participants will be randomized to either a 12-week XR exergaming intervention with behavioral coaching or a non-intervention control group, followed by a 24-week sustainability phase. Aim 1 examines immediate and sustained effects on physical activity levels. Aim 2 tests effects on cardiometabolic health indicators including blood lipids, blood pressure, and glycemic markers. Aim 3 explores effects on physical fitness and perceived health. All procedures are conducted remotely via telehealth.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. medical diagnosis of cerebral palsy
2. between the ages of 10-17 years (10 years of age is the minimum requirement of the Meta Quest 3s headset, as noted by the manufacturer)
3. physician clearance to participate in moderate-intensity exercise
4. access to a Wi-Fi Internet connection in the home
5. a caregiver that is committed to supporting the child with setting up and assisting with the prescribed exergaming and managing the study activities

Exclusion Criteria:

1. physically active (defined as ≥150 minutes per week of moderate-to-vigorous intensity exercise in a typical week)
2. prone to photosensitive seizures
3. a classification of GMFCS level V, which we have found to preclude the ability to use the Oculus Quest hand-held controllers
4. complete blindness or deafness
5. unable to communicate in English (participant and caregiver)