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Research Article: The Effectiveness and Usability of a Rehabilitation Program Using the Nintendo Switch to Promote Healthy Aging in Older People with Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Date Published: 2024-03-16

Abstract:
(1) Background: Healthy aging is the process of developing and maintaining functional capacity and optimizing involvement in order to improve one’s quality of life as people age. This study aimed to encourage healthy aging in people with cognitive impairment, as well as a control group, via the use of the Nintendo Switch combined with occupational therapy sessions, aiming to improve gross and fine motor skills, functionality, quality of life, and cognitive status. (2) Methods: A randomized clinical trial was undertaken. The sample was randomized using the OxMar software program Attribution 4.0 International, facilitating the division into a control group (CG), who received conventional occupational therapy sessions, and an experimental group (EG), who received therapy incorporating the Nintendo Switch, in addition to conventional occupational therapy sessions. The intervention period with the Nintendo Switch lasted for 8 weeks. (3) Results: Thirty-two participants were included in the study. Significant differences were found in the vast majority of the variables analyzed, which shows an improvement following the intervention; these improvements were mainly observed in measures of skill and the perception of quality of life. (4) Conclusions: An eight-week intervention with the Nintendo Switch alongside conventional occupational therapy helps to maintain cognitive status and functional independence. Following 8 weeks of intervention with the Nintendo Switch, improvements in gross motor dexterity, fine motor dexterity, and quality of life were observed in older people with cognitive impairment.

Introduction:
Normal aging is defined as a heterogeneous and modifiable process that is associated with a complex pattern of gains and losses in cognitive and affective domains [1,2]. Aging is the most significant risk factor in most common chronic diseases [3]. Some cognitive abilities, such as working memory and processing speed, tend to decline with age [1]. However, it is possible for a brain to age and be healthy simultaneously [4].

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