BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Balance problems are well-established modifiable risk factors for falls, which are common in older adults. The objective of this study was to establish the efficacy of a Wii-Fit interactive video-game-led physical exercise program to improve balance in older veterans. METHODS: A prospective randomized controlled parallel-group trial was conducted at Veterans Affairs Medical Center. Thirty community dwelling veterans aged 68 (+/- 6.7) years were randomized to either the exercise or control groups. The exercise group performed Wii-Fit program while the control group performed a computer-based cognitive program for 45 minutes, three days per week for 8-weeks. The primary (Berg Balance Scale (BBS)) and secondary outcomes (fear of falling, physical activity enjoyment, and quality of life) were measured at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. RESULTS: Of 30 randomized subjects, 27 completed all aspects of the study protocol. There were no study-related adverse events. Intent-to-treat analysis showed a significantly greater improvement in BBS in the exercise group (6.0; 95% CI 5.1 to 6.9) compared to the control group (0.5; 95% CI -0.3 to 1.3) at 8 weeks (average intergroup difference (95% CI) 5.5 (4.3 to 6.7), p < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline. CONCLUSION: This study establishes that the Wii-Fit exercise program is efficacious in improving balance in community dwelling older veterans. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT02190045.

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