The Effect of Six Weeks of Exergaming vs. Fall-proof exercises vs. on Ankle Proprioception and Fear of Falling in -the Elderly Men

 Biological changes caused by aging can affect the functioning of the human locomotor system. The purpose of this study was to compare the effect of exergaming vs. fall-proof exercises on ankle joint proprioception and fear of fall among the elderly.

Forty-five elderly men, aged 60-74 years voluntarily participated in this semi-experimental study that includes a control group. Participants were randomly assigned into three groups including exergaming (n=15), fall-proof prevention exercises (n=15) and control (n=15). Participants in the training groups exercised for 6 weeks, three 70-minute sessions per week. Participants in the control group did continue their regular daily lifestyle. Ankle joint proprioception was recorded at 10 degrees of Dorsiflexion and 20 degrees of Plantar-flexion by Electro goniometer. The Self-Efficacy Questionnaire was applied for recording fear of fall among the elderly. Data were analyzed using paired t-test and two-way covariance ANOVA and using SPSS software version 24.

 The results of two-way covariance analysis showed a significant improvement in ankle joint proprioception at both 10° dorsiflexion and 20° plantarflexion angles in both groups (fall-proof, exergaming). Fear of fall was also improved similarly in both training groups (p < 0.05). The outcome measures were not significantly changed in the control group.

 Six weeks of both exergaming and fall-proof training can improve the ankle joint proprioception and the fear of fall in elderly men. Both the exergaming and fall-proof training are recommended for elderly men.