We conducted two studies exploring the suitability of fullbody
motion control for older adults. In our first study, we
evaluated how well elderly participants could perform a set
of gestures that was developed in collaboration with a
physical therapist. Results suggest limitations in traditional
gesture movements, and based on our findings in study one,
we designed a game for institutionalized elderly using
gestures for full-body motion control. In a second study we
investigated how participants responded to the gestures in
our game. Results from study two showed the success of
our gestures, and demonstrated the positive effect of
playing our game on participant mood. Our work makes
three primary contributions: 1) We created a set of gestures
suitable for institutionalized older adults in a gaming
context, considering their range of motion, agility and
strength; 2) We presented a full-body motion-controlled
game for older adults and demonstrated that such games
can have a positive effect on older adults’ moods;
influencing their well-being and providing enjoyable leisure
activities; and 3) We present design guidelines for full-body
motion controls to accommodate the range of abilities
among institutionalized older adults. Additionally, we
discuss how our findings and guidelines generalize beyond
the scope of camera-based full-body motion-control games.