Study on the Use of Exergames to Support Older Adults With Psychosis

Launched by TOBIAS MELCHER · Jul 1, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new way to help older adults living with psychosis—a condition that can include illnesses like schizophrenia and related symptoms such as hallucinations or delusions. Many older people with these conditions also face challenges like memory problems, difficulty moving, and feeling isolated, which can make everyday life harder. This study is testing whether using “exergames”—video games that involve physical movement and mental tasks—can improve both the mind and body in this group. These games are designed to be fun and motivating, encouraging players to move their bodies while also focusing their attention and memory.

People aged 55 and older who have a diagnosed psychotic disorder and can stand for at least a few minutes without help may be eligible to join. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one will use the exergame system called Dividat Senso, while the other will do traditional strength and balance exercises. Both groups will exercise three times a week for about 20 minutes each session over four weeks. Before and after the program, participants will be assessed on their physical activity, mental well-being, and thinking skills. This study aims to see if exergames are a safe, enjoyable, and effective way to support older adults with psychosis, potentially offering a new and engaging option for their care.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosed psychotic disorders
• • Able to provide a signed informed consent
• • Age ≥ 55 years
• • MoCA ≥ 20
• • Physically able to stand for at least 3 minutes without external support (self-report)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Insufficient knowledge of the German language to understand the instructions, the games, and the assessments
• • Mobility, cognitive, sensory and/or psychiatric limitations or comorbidities that impair the ability to play the exergames and/or conduct the pre-/post assessments