Research conducted by Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) has found at-home gamified exercises to be effective in preventing falls in individuals over 65 years old. Falls were reduced by 26 per cent when compared to a control group. 

Falls are a significant public health issue that contributes to mobility related disability and a loss of independence. They are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide, with one in three people over 65 experiencing a fall each year.

Regular balance challenging activities are key to reducing the risk of falling. The smart+step is an exercise gaming system developed by NeuRA designed for intuitive, safe and self-guided use in the home. 

“It was really encouraging to see that smart+step, an exergaming console that anyone can enjoy at home completely unassisted from a therapist, brought a benefit to older people by preventing falls,” said Dr. Daina Sturniek, Senior Research Scientist at NeuRA and UNSW Sydney. 

A large study was conducted which involved participants living in the community over the age of 65. Participants were instructed to spend 120 minutes per week over a 12-month period doing smart+step exercise games. The comparative control group received a public health pamphlet about preventing falls. The group that used smart+step showed evidence of decreased fall risk. 

“We’ve known for a long time that, if done correctly and consistently, balance challenging exercises because they can get boring very quickly,” said Sturniek. By gamifying the experience, smart+step encourages the consistency required to have a positive and lasting effect on balance and cognitive function. 

The smart+step exercise games, commonly called exergames, require users to think and move quickly, unlike traditional exercise programs. Not only are there physical health benefits but undertaking this brain training helps with balance and coordination as well. The exergames involve stepping on a mat that is the controller used to navigate various activities such as collecting treasures, stomping on cockroaches or avoiding obstacles. 

“Exergames are like a two-in-one; you get physical benefits but also you are keeping yourself cognitively challenged, which is good for the brain and healthy ageing Plus it's fun!” 

Those interested in purchasing the system can join a waitlist by emailing [email protected]. To learn more you can visit this website.