The Effects of an Exergame Training on Body and Brain of Older Adults

This study investigates the effects of an exergame training including strength, balance, and cognitive training components on motor functions, cognition and brain structure of older adults. The primary objective is to determine the effects of the home-based multicomponent exergame training on motor and cognitive functions of older adults compared to a usual care waitlist control group. To understand the underlying mechanisms, the secondary objective is to assess the effect of the exergame training on neuronal level (brain structure). The study design is a randomized controlled trial including 40 healthy (self-reported), independently living older adults aged 65 years and older. The intervention period lasts for 16-18 weeks (no longer than two weeks of break/holiday allowed) with three training sessions per week each lasting about 40 minutes.