Effects of exergaming in older individuals with mild cognitive impairment and dementia: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Non-pharmaceutical interventions have been implemented for people with dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Researchers have used exergaming in dementia to alleviate cognitive decline in patients with dementia.

Aims: We assessed the effects of exergaming interventions on MCI and dementia.

Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO [CRD42022347399]). PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Embase electronic databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The impact of exergaming on cognitive function, physical performance, and quality of life in patients with MCI and dementia was investigated.

Results: Ten RCTs met the eligibility criteria and were included in our systematic review. The results of the meta-analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the Mini-mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Trail Making Test, Chinese version of the Verbal Learning Test, Berg Balance Scale, Short Physical Performance Battery, and Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly in people with dementia and MCI who participated in exergaming. However, there were no significant improvements in the Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activity of Daily Living or Quality of Life.

Conclusion: Although there were significant differences in cognitive and physical functions, these results should be interpreted with caution because of heterogeneity. The additional benefits of exergaming remain to be confirmed in future studies.