Recommendations for the Optimal Design of Exergame Interventions for Persons with Disabilities: Challenges, Best Practices, and Future Research

Games Health J. 2015 Feb;4(1):58-62. doi: 10.1089/g4h.2014.0078. Epub 2014 Dec 3.

Abstract

A group discussion of individuals with expertise working in the field of exergaming and rehabilitation focused on the issue of designing exergames for persons with disabilities as well as appropriate interventions using exergames. The purpose of these discussions was to develop recommendations for the design, evaluation, and application of exergames in therapy serving as potential guidelines for researchers, developers, and therapists. The following key issues were addressed: (1) Challenges in exergame design for persons with disabilities, (2) adaptation of exergames for persons with disabilities, (3) exergame interventions, and (4) future research directions. It is the hope of the group that the results of these recommendations will help improve the quality of exergame design and interventions and thereby increase opportunities for persons with disabilities to engage sustainably in exergaming.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Databases as Topic
  • Disabled Persons / rehabilitation*
  • Exercise
  • Exercise Therapy / instrumentation*
  • Exercise Therapy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Motor Activity / physiology
  • Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine / methods
  • Software Design
  • User-Computer Interface*
  • Video Games*