Effects of Exergaming and Autogenic Relaxation on Psychological Well-Being in Nursing Home Residents

This interventional clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of Antroyun (exergaming) and autogenic relaxation techniques on psychological well-being and life engagement among older adults living in nursing homes. Participants were randomly assigned to one of three groups: Antroyun intervention group, autogenic relaxation group, and a control group. Interventions were applied twice per week for eight weeks. The results indicated that both interventions had a significant effect on improving psychological well-being and life engagement. The Antroyun group showed faster and more marked improvements in earlier follow-ups, while the autogenic relaxation group demonstrated sustained benefits in later follow-ups. The control group did not show any significant changes over time. Additionally, in the Antroyun group, the number of game wins was positively correlated with improvements in psychological well-being and life engagement scores. This study was carried out as part of a doctoral dissertation at Sivas Cumhuriyet University.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 65 years or older * Residing in a nursing home * Able to communicate and follow instructions * Scoring 24 or above on the Standardized Mini Mental Test (SMMT) * Voluntary participation and written informed consent obtained Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed with advanced cognitive impairment (SMMT score \< 24) * Diagnosed with severe psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, severe depression) * Having physical disabilities that prevent participation in the interventions (e.g., immobility, severe visual or auditory loss) * Refusal or inability to provide informed consent