Effect of Exergaming on Physical Fitness, Functional Mobility, and Cognitive Functioning in Adults With Down Syndrome

Abstract

Abstract This study examined whether exergames could improve physical, functional, and cognitive functions in people with Down syndrome. Twelve adults with DS, aged over 35 (M = 50.35, SD = 7.45), were randomly assigned to a Wii-based program (n = 6) or a control group (n = 6), and completed physical (Chair Stand Test, 6-Minute Walk Test), functional (TUG, TUDS), and cognitive tests (Corsi, Barrage tests). The experimental group completed a 12-week Wii-based program. There was high intervention adherence and, compared with the control group, greater improvements were observed in the Wii-based exercise intervention group in physical fitness and functional outcomes (p < .05), with no changes in cognitive outcomes.