Effect of Exergaming on Physical Fitness, Functional Mobility, and Cognitive Functioning in Adults With Down Syndrome

Am J Intellect Dev Disabil. 2021 Jan 1;126(1):34-44. doi: 10.1352/1944-7558-126.1.34.

Abstract

This study examined whether exergames could improve physical, functional, and cognitive functions in people with Down syndrome. Twelve adults with DS, aged over 35 (M = 50.35, SD = 7.45), were randomly assigned to a Wii-based program (n = 6) or a control group (n = 6), and completed physical (Chair Stand Test, 6-Minute Walk Test), functional (TUG, TUDS), and cognitive tests (Corsi, Barrage tests). The experimental group completed a 12-week Wii-based program. There was high intervention adherence and, compared with the control group, greater improvements were observed in the Wii-based exercise intervention group in physical fitness and functional outcomes (p < .05), with no changes in cognitive outcomes.

Keywords: Down syndrome; exergames; healthful aging; physical activity.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Cognition
  • Down Syndrome*
  • Exercise
  • Humans
  • Physical Fitness
  • Video Games*