Researchers in Singapore explored how different exergaming modes affect exercise intentions, fear of falling, and emotional well-being in older adults, particularly those from low socioeconomic backgrounds—a group often overlooked in such research.
48 participants took part in a four-week community-based intervention, divided into 4 groups: conventional exercise, solo exergaming, exergaming with a health coach, and exergaming with a peer. The results showed that all exergaming approaches had positive effects across all measured outcomes.
Exergaming with a health coach significantly boosted exercise intentions and emotional well-being, highlighting the motivational impact of professional support. The findings revealed that all exergaming modes positively influenced exercise intentions, fear of falling, and emotional well-being to varying extents.
Notably, exergaming with a health coach significantly improved participants’ exercise intentions and emotional well-being, underscoring the value of expert guidance in motivating and supporting older adults in adopting healthier lifestyles. Exergaming with a peer was most effective in reducing fear of falling, highlighting the importance of social support and peer interaction in addressing physical health concerns among this population.
Source: Bao H, Pai SGS, Singh NB, et al. Single or multiplayer mode? Examining the effects of exergames in improving physical health and well-being among older adults. Games Health J. 2025;14(2):119-126. doi: 10.1089/g4h.2023.0241.
