Effects of Videogaming on the Physical, Mental Health, and Cognitive Function of People with Intellectual Disability: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Videogames have been applied to improve health-related outcomes in people with intellectual disabilities (ID). For this purpose, it seems necessary to make available the best scientific information concerning the feasibility and potential benefits of playing videogames within this population. This study aimed to systematically review the existing scientific evidence regarding the effects of videogaming on the physical and mental health of people with ID. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a literature search was performed using MEDLINE/PubMed, PEDro, SPORTDiscus, and Scopus up to June 2020. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to rate the methodological quality of the included investigations. A total of 17 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were selected. Data synthesis examined physical health, including anthropometrics, physical fitness, and motor skills, and mental health and cognitive function. Intervention protocols were based on videogames of different nature (i.e., exergames and computerized cognitive training) and showed substantial heterogeneity in duration. Session length varied from 15 to 60 minutes. Five studies achieved a high intervention adherence rate, whereas a low drop-out rate was reported in eight RCTs. Videogaming is a useful therapy for improving physical and cognitive function in people with ID. Exergaming seems to be an interesting physical intervention for increasing fitness and motor skill levels, while sedentary videogaming has shown potential for stimulating cognitive function. Further research to analyze its feasibility and its impact on body composition and mental health is needed.