Effects of board games on balance in association with cognition in community-dwelling older adults

Abstract

Objectives: Falls among the elderly are a prevalent concern. Maintaining balance and preventing falls necessitate cognitive processes, such as information processing speed and executive functions. The objective was to determine the impacts of board games on cognition, balance, and risk of falls among community-dwelling elders. Methods: Sixty-four elders aged 65 years and above, with mini–mental state examination (MMSE), scores above 26 and Berg balance scale (BBS) scores between 41 and 52, were recruited with a sample size of 64 divided into two groups, 32 in each group. Participants were randomized through the sealed envelope technique into experimental (engaging in board games) and control groups (not involved in board game activity). The BBS, MMSE, timed upand-go test (TUGT), and dynamic gait index (DGI) were assessed at baseline, four weeks, and eight weeks. Results: Participants engaging in board games (mean age 69.93 ± 4.77) demonstrated significant improvements in cognition, with MMSE scores increasing from 26.8 ± 0.83 at baseline to 28.6 ± 0.74 after eight weeks ( P < 0.001). BBS scores enhanced from 47.2 ± 1.84 to 49.8 ± 5.15 ( P < 0.001), DGI scores improved from 19.65 ± 1.49 to 21.37 ± 1.47 ( P < 0.001), and TUGT scores decreased from 10.40 ± 0.69 to 10.22 ± 0.67 ( P < 0.001). Mixed analysis of variance revealed significant differences between experimental and control groups for MMSE ( P < 0.001), BBS ( P < 0.001), DGI ( P < 0.001), and TUGT ( P < 0.001). Conclusion: The eight-week interactive physical-cognitive training program involving board games was found to enhance cognitive performance, mobility, and balance and decrease fall risk among the elderly.