Comparing video game exercise and regular physical therapy for nursing home residents

Physical Function in Older Adults: Exergaming vs. Usual Care in Physical Therapy - A Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional University of Castilla-La Mancha · NCT06886867

This study is testing whether playing active video games can help older adults in nursing homes improve their physical function better than regular physical therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment52 (estimated)
Ages60 Years to 105 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Castilla-La Mancha Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Fuensalida, Toledo and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06886867 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effects of exergaming, which involves playing video games designed for physical activity, against usual care physical therapy on the physical function of older adults living in nursing homes. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the exergaming group, which will engage in video games from the Party Fowl app, or the usual care group, which will continue their standard exercise routines. The interventions will occur three times a week for six weeks, with assessments of physical function, enjoyment, adherence, and perceived exertion conducted at baseline, post-intervention, and at a three-month follow-up. The study follows CONSORT guidelines to ensure rigorous methodology.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults over 60 years of age who can stand with or without assistance and have a cognitive score of 20 or higher on the Mini Mental test.

Not a fit: Patients with severe visual impairments or medical conditions that contraindicate physical activity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance physical function and enjoyment of therapy for older adults in nursing homes.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with exergaming in older populations, suggesting potential benefits in physical function and engagement.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* subjects over 60 years of age
* score equal to or greater than 20 on the Mini Mental cognitive test
* Subjects that present the ability to stand without the use of technical aids or with the technical assistance of a device used for walking.

Exclusion Criteria:

* severe visual impairment
* medical contraindication for physical activity
* pathology or problem that could prevent the test from being carried out.

Where this trial is running

Fuensalida, Toledo and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Older Adults Institutionalized in Residential Homes
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.