Recov-R: Evaluation of a Home-Based Tailored Exergame System to Reduce Fall risk in Seniors

Rehabilitation has proven effective to significantly reduce fall risk in seniors; however, low adherence to home rehabilitation and a lack of feedback on performance and progress indicate that seniors might not receive the amount of therapy necessary to reduce their risk of falling. We present a tailored exergame system for the home (called Recov-R) to motivate seniors to exercise and facilitate effective recovery by promoting optimal quality of movement during exercise. Based on an 8-week field study, with 38 participants, we present results on the use of the Recov-R system, versus standard care, in the home. Our findings suggest that the use of the system can increase adherence to exercise and reduce fall risk by improving outcomes of physical function – mobility and balance. We also highlight opportunities, based on these results, for the design of effective exergame technologies for musculoskeletal rehabilitation in the home.