Study, titled Effects of Kinect-Based Exergaming versus Wii Fit on Balance and Fall Risk among Healthy Older Adults, is a randomized controlled trial comparing the balance training effects of Xbox Kinect and Wii Fit.

After obtaining informed consent, 46 healthy older adults will be randomly allocated (1:1) using sealed envelopes to a 6-week training program in either group. Static, Dynamic, and Anticipatory balance will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention using the Biodex Balance System for objective comparison.

Balance is a complex, multidimensional concept related to postural control, referring essentially to the ability to maintain a stable posture. Each year, an estimated 37.3 million individuals experience a fall that requires hospitalization and may lead to severe injuries, such as fractures and traumatic brain injuries. Traditional balance exercises reduce fall risk but may have low long-term adherence in seniors. The introduction of VR-based games engages participants in interactive balance exercises.

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of Kinect-based exergaming compared to Wii Fit balance training on reducing fall risk in elderly individuals, focusing on parameters of Fall incidence, as well as Static, Dynamic, and Anticipatory balance.

The study will be a non-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT), consisting of 2 groups. The Study will be conducted over 1 year at the Multidisciplinary Development Lab (MDL) of the Foundation University College of Physical Therapy (FUCP).

A calculated sample of 46 subjects will be selected via a non-probability convenience sampling technique, followed by randomization in a 1:1 ratio to Group A (Kinect-based exergaming) or Group B (Wii Fit) using the sealed-envelope method.

After CBRC registration, ethical approval will be obtained from the Ethical Review Commitee (ERC) of Foundation University Medical College (FUMC).

Individuals fulfilling the inclusion criteria will be selected, followed by written informed consent after explaining the study purpose. Participants will then be randomly allocated to one of the 2 groups.

At baseline, investigators will assess postural control using the Postural Stability System and balance confidence using the Falls Efficacy Scale. Objective static and dynamic balance will be evaluated using the Berg Balance Scale, while cognitive function will be assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).

One group will be provided with Kinect-based exer-gaming balance training. The second group will be provided with the Wii Fit Balance Training. Exercise training would be performed over a 6-week intervention period, administering exercise training 3 days per week. All outcome measurements would be performed before and after the 6-week intervention period. Data will be entered and analyzed on SPSS v. 22.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Older adults aged ≥55, community-dwelling, with a BBS score between 21-50, including both mild to moderate Risk falls
• Able to stand without assistive devices
• Cognitively able to follow instructions, with a MoCA score ≥ 22
• Both Genders: Males and females

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of Neurological disorders affecting balance (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)
• Acute Vestibular disorders/Major Musculoskeletal impairments (e.g., Arthritis)
• Participation in other balance training programs within the past 6 months
• Any condition posing a safety risk (e.g., severe osteoporosis, uncontrolled hypertension

This study will be conducted as a single-blinded randomized controlled trial. The outcome assessor will be blinded to group allocation to minimize detection bias. The assessor performing evaluations using the Berg Balance Scale, Falls Efficacy Scale, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Biodex Balance System will not be informed whether participants are assigned to the Xbox Kinect or Wii Fit group. Participants and therapists cannot be blinded due to the nature of the interventions.