Exergaming Physical Exercise Program Protocol for Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment

DNP Dissertation project defended at Yale University, April 2025

Implementation of a cognitive-motor exergame regimen for older adults with mild cognitive impairment resulted in:

• 11 older adults over the age of 65+ participated in 8-week exergaming intervention

• 73% of participants had improved cognitive function (MoCA) scores post intervention

• Cognition was sufficiently challenged regardless of exercise dosing

By: Yushiu Lin, MSN, MHSM, APRN, AGPCNP-BC

Abstract

Physical inactivity is a risk factor for dementia and may accelerate the progression of mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Older adults with MCI often engage in insufficient exercise, increasing their risk. This clinical intervention evaluated the effects of an exergaming physical exercise program on cognitive function and balance in older adults with MCI. Cognitive function was measured using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), while balance was evaluated with the Romberg Test. The aims involved developing and implementing an eight-week exergaming physical exercise program, using a pre-packaged, non-immersive virtual reality (VR) application. Results indicated a significant improvement in cognitive function following increased physical exercise, while balance stability was maintained. These findings suggest that an exergaming physical exercise program is an effective therapeutic approach to promote physical activity, potentially enhancing cognitive function and preserving balance stability in older adults with MCI.