The global population is aging at an uncontrolled rate. In 2019, the number of people aged 65 years and older worldwide was estimated at 703 million. As of 2024, there are an estimated 830 million individuals aged 65 and older globally. This figure, according to the latest data from the United Nations, is projected to double by 2054, reaching approximately 1.7 billion. Among all global regions, Africa stands out for the pace and scale at which its older population is projected to grow. South Africa’s ageing population is increasing, placing a greater burden on long-term care facilities to address the physical and cognitive decline experienced by older adults. This swell in the aging population weighs significant social, economic, and healthcare implications such as heightened risks of chronic diseases, functional decline, cognitive impairment, and diminished quality of life, particularly among older adults living in long-term care facilities.

 

As technology has evolved, exergaming has emerged as an innovative approach to delivering dual-task training. Exergames are interactive video games that require simultaneous physical and cognitive engagement, which brings about an exciting and motivating alternative to traditional exercises. Research has shown that exergaming can enhance cognitive functions, such as attention and executive function, while improving physical abilities such as balance and muscle strength. The SMARTfit (https://smartfitinc.com/) is a novel technology that provides an opportunity to combine physical with cognitive training. SMARTfit technology focuses on providing a multi-sensory approach for exercise by simultaneously using visual and auditory stimuli/feedback while delivering physical and cognitive training games. It can be utilized as a model to investigate the benefits of combining cognitive challenges with physical training on elderly individuals.

 

This study addresses a critical gap by exploring innovative, evidence-based interventions that can support healthy aging in these settings. This study will evaluate the impact of SMARTfit exergaming on physical and cognitive outcomes in long term care settings. The study can provide evidence on the effectiveness of exergaming for improving physical and cognitive health among older adults in these facilities and contribute to the global body of knowledge on the use of gerontechnology in Low-Middle Income Countries (LMICs). These findings will support evidence-based decision-making for healthcare policy, aligning with the South African Older Persons Act to promote the protection and well-being of older persons and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 3, ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all ages. By providing evidence for innovative interventions, the study aims to contribute to more sustainable and cost-effective rehabilitation strategies for older adults in South Africa.

Nabilah Ebrahim

PhD Student & Lecturer

Faculty of Community and Health Sciences

Department of Sport, Recreation and Exercise Science

University of the Western Cape

South Africa

 

I hold a degree in Sport Science, dual Honours in Sport and Exercise Science and Biokinetics. I completed my Masters in Biokinetics, with thesis titled “The determinants of falls among the elderly living in long-term care facilities in the City of Cape Town” which has heightened my passion for disabilities and interest in geriatrics. I was nominated as an ambassador for the Africa

Wetu Foundation (AWF) and formed part of the UWC Emerging Leader’s Programme (ELP) whilst completing my masters. I formed part of The Foundation for Global Community Health Future Leaders (GCHFL) in March 2024 at the 3rd BRICSCESS held in Delhi NCR, India. As an athlete, I am a South African Region South and USSA (University Sport South Africa) karate gold medalist.

I am now pursuing my doctoral studies in motor and cognitive functions amongst the elderly. I am working as a part – time lecturer at the University of the Western Cape. My area of interest is geriatrics with a focus on biomechanics and rehabilitation. With my passion for geriatrics, I

wish to support and evolve the studies of holistic health and advanced motion capture systems amongst this high priority community.