1 research outputs found
GameUp: Exergames for mobility – a project to keep elderly active
A big challenge for Europe is the demographic
shift towards an aging population. Resources in the health care
sector are limited, so it is important that the seniors of tomorrow
will be able to stay healthy and manage themselves as long
as possible, preferably also with a good quality of life. Physical
activity is very important both for mobility and for the general
well-being, but it can be hard to find motivation to exercise
alone at home. Also in rehabilitation there is a need for a more
engaging approach than a sheet of paper describing exercises
that should be performed. In the GameUp project we developed
fun and motivational exergames particularly targeting
elderly in a user centred approach. Physiotherapists ensured
that the movements and exercises were good for flexibility, leg
strength and balance. In addition to seven Kinect games, a
walking app and a professional portal were developed. The
Kinect games can be played in several levels, and those who
are at risk of falling are able to play while seated. The professional
portal ensures that the results of the project also can be
used as a tool in rehabilitation. Test results from 20 elderly
aged 65-95 as well as clinical trials of adherence to the exercises
are encouraging, and the international and multidisciplinary
team behind the project is now looking for ways to commercialize
the project outcomes