Using the Wii to Improve Balance in Older Adults: A Systematic Review

ABSTRACT

Aims:  The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Wii at improving balance in older adults without documented neurologic or orthopedic deficits. Methods: A thorough investigation of the CINAHL Plus with Full Text, ProQuest Medical Library, and SPORTDiscus with Full Text databases was completed. The search terms utilized while analyzing the databases were “Wii” AND “randomized” AND “balance” OR “postural control” AND “elderly” OR “older adults”. Results: Eight studies were included in the qualitative analysis. Participants in the Wii therapy groups generally demonstrated more improvement in postural control compared to participants in the control groups. Although there were no significant differences in postural control between the Wii therapy groups and the conventional therapy groups following the respective intervention, the Wii participants generally expressed greater enjoyment, interest, and motivation. Conclusions: Wii balance training may be considered an effective alternative intervention for individuals with impaired postural control.

KEYWORDS. :

• Balance
• elderly
• older adults
• postural control
• Wii