Rising Numbers
Parkinson’s disease is currently the fastest-growing neurological disorder. In 2021, approximately 11.8 million people worldwide were living with the disease, with nearly a quarter experiencing their first symptoms before the age of 65. It is expected that the number of people with Parkinson’s will increase by 56% between 2015 and 2040. In addition to aging and increased life expectancy, research suggests that exposure to harmful substances, such as pesticides, also contributes to this rise (Parkinsonnet.nl, n.d.).
Research on Exergaming
As the disease progresses, many patients experience difficulties with walking, mobility, and balance. Fortunately, exercise can help alleviate these symptoms and reduce the risk of falls (International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society, 2020).
A study by Zhang et al. (2022), which analyzed 19 studies involving a total of 781 Parkinson’s patients over the age of 60, found that exergaming is an effective way to train balance. Participants who engaged in exergaming showed significant improvements in tests such as the Timed Up and Go (TUG), the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and the Functional Gait Assessment (FGA). The researchers concluded that exergaming is not only a valuable addition to balance training but also simultaneously stimulates cognitive functions and sensory processing.
Gamified Exercises
Since 2008, SilverFit has been developing movement systems with gamified exercises to encourage physical activity among vulnerable older adults. Parkinson’s patients are a specific target group for whom exercises and games have been adapted, such as A stroll with a metronome, fruit picking to promote thoracic rotation, and playing bingo with cues.
The SilverFit 3D offers balance exercises in the form of a game, making training not only effective but also engaging and motivating. Research shows that using SilverFit 3D not only improves balance but also enhances motivation, therapy adherence, and cognitive skills (Whitepaper SilverFit 3D, 2024).
With SilverFit 3D, nearly any gross motor movement prescribed in geriatric rehabilitation can be integrated into a game. The system includes seated exercises, sit-to-stand transfers, and balance and walking exercises. The exercises are based on the Royal Dutch Society for Physical Therapy (KNGF) guidelines and best practices in paramedical care.
Would you like to learn more about the research and findings related to SilverFit 3D?
Read the SilverFit 3D whitepaper!
References
- What is Parkinson’s? (n.d.). Parkinsonnet. https://www.parkinsonnet.nl/parkinson/.
- Exercise for Patients with Parkinson’s Disease: Essential Facts for Patients (2020). International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society. https://www.movementdisorders.org/MDS-Files1/Education/Patient-Education/Exercise-for-Parkinsons-Disease/ExerciseforParkinsonsDiseaseDutch.pdf
- Zhang, J., Luximon, Y., Pang, M. Y., & Wang, H. (2022). Effectiveness of exergaming-based interventions for mobility and balance performance in older adults with Parkinson’s disease: systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Age and Ageing, 51(8), afac175.
- SilverFit 3D Whitepaper (2024). SilverFit. https://silverfit.nl/en/systems/silverfit-3d/#scientific
