THE EFFECTS OF GAMIFIED EXERCISE ON THE PHYSICAL HEALTH OF OLDER WOMEN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Aysun KAZAK SALTI, Yağmur SÜRMELİ AKBAL

European Journal of Geriatrics and Gerontology - 2026;8(2):135-140

Mersin University Vocational School of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Services and Techniques, First and Emergency Aid, Mersin, Türkiye

 

This systematic review aims to determine the effects of gamified exercise on the physical health of older women. A search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, EBSCO, Google Scholar, and TR Dizin databases was conducted between July 1 and August 1 2025. Studies published in 2021 or later that investigated game-based interventions and employed randomised controlled or quasi-experimental designs were included. In line with the inclusion criteria, only studies involving women aged 65 years or older were reviewed, resulting in the inclusion of seven studies in the final analysis. Game-based exercises improved lower-extremity strength, balance, and postural control and reduced signs of fatigue and pre-frailty. Virtual-reality and Wii-based training demonstrated significant functional gains and were safe in older women. No additional benefit was found from transcranial stimulation. Overall, exercise games effectively improved physical and cognitive outcomes. Game-based activities are an effective and motivating approach to improving physical function in older women and may be considered a complementary intervention in geriatric rehabilitation.