Feasibility Testing a Youth Therapeutic Exercise Video Game System (‘Bootle Blast’) with People with Dementia

What is this Study about?

‘Bootle Blast’ combines therapy and video games. It has been used with children and youth with musculoskeletal disabilities in clinics and homes. Preliminary research supports Bootle Blast’s ability to engage players and support physical outcomes. Informal testing suggests it may also appeal to older adults. This study will test Bootle Blast’s feasibility with people with dementia. Pairs of people with dementia and their caregivers (n=10) will play Bootle Blast at home for 2 weeks. Data will include video recordings, surveys, balance tests, safety and adherence tracking, and interviews. This study aims to inform a more accessible version of Bootle Blast.

What Will Happen in This Study?

During a home visit, participants with dementia will meet with the researchers for 1-1.5 hours to learn to use the games and complete two balance tests and three questionnaires. Caregivers will also be taught to use the system and complete a demographic questionnaire. Participants will then play Bootle Blast at home for 2 weeks on days/times fitting their schedule. The game will record all sessions while playing. Weekly check-in phone calls (5-10 minutes/call) will occur. At the end, participants with dementia will re-complete the balance tests. Both participants will be audio-recorded during a separate 30-minute interview.

Who is Eligible to Participate in this Study?

People with Dementia
• Live in Ontario, Canada (within a two-hour drive from Toronto, Ontario)
• Speak and understand English
• Agree to be video and audio recorded as part of the study
• Be able to stand and walk, with or without an assistive device (e.g., a walker)
• Have the capacity to provide independent, informed consent


Caregivers
• Live in Ontario, Canada (within a two-hour drive from Toronto, Ontario)
• Speak and understand English
• Agree to be video and audio recorded as part of the study

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