An exploratory study on senior citizens' perceptions of the Nintendo Wii: The case of Singapore

Yin Leng Theng*, Amirrudin Bin Dahlan, Meutia Latifah Akmal, Thant Zin Myint

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

57 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Recent developments in digitally mediated games such as the Nintendo Wii aim to encourage exercise. This paper focuses on assessing the efficacy of the Nintendo Wii, popular in the United States and Japan, in promoting regular exercise among senior citizens in Singapore (aged 65 years and above). Adapting from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this exploratory study examines senior citizens' perceptions of the Nintendo Wii. Twenty-eight participants took part in this pilot study conducted at a senior citizens centre in Singapore. Data collection was carried out via a self-reported questionnaire and video observation. Findings indicate that senior citizens perceived the Nitindo Wii usable with realistic depictions of games and had positive engagement with the Wii games. However, contrary to prior belief, findings did not show that perceived usefulness has a significant influence on senior citizens' intention to use the Wii for improving social interaction, health and exercise. The paper concludes with a discussion on the design and impact of digitally mediated games for elderly users.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationi-CREATe 2009 - International Convention on Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology
PublisherAssociation for Computing Machinery (ACM)
ISBN (Print)9781605587929
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2009
Externally publishedYes
Event3rd International Convention on Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology, i-CREATe 2009 - , Singapore
Duration: Apr 22 2009Apr 26 2009

Publication series

Namei-CREATe 2009 - International Convention on Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology

Conference

Conference3rd International Convention on Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology, i-CREATe 2009
Country/TerritorySingapore
Period4/22/094/26/09

ASJC Scopus Subject Areas

  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Rehabilitation
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation

Keywords

  • Elderly
  • Perceived usability and perceived usefulness
  • Senior citizens
  • Technology acceptance model
  • Wii

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