The Feasibility of an Exergaming Program in Underserved Older African Americans

Abstract

The study tested the feasibility and efficacy of an exergaming program in underserved older African American communities. The study is a single-group with pre- and posttest design. Twelve female participants (M age = 64.17 ± 6.74 years) completed an exergaming program once or twice a week for 24 sessions over 14 weeks. Community health workers implemented the program through coaching and supporting mechanisms to motivate participants to exercise. A mixed-methods analysis was used to assess the intervention. After the program, participants showed significant improvements in lower body flexibility (p = .012), and physical health–related quality of life (p = .005). Four themes were identified related to the self-reported benefits of the exergaming program: (a) improving health, (b) feeling enjoyment, (c) getting connected, and (d) knowing you. The exergaming program provides an easy-to-implement and potentially effective intervention that can be used in community-directed centers to improve health and well-being in the underserved population.