# A novel music-based game with motion capture to support cognitive and motor function in the elderly

## TL;DR

This paper introduces a music-based motion capture game designed to enhance cognitive and motor functions in the elderly, aiming to improve engagement and health outcomes through innovative eHealth technology.

## Contribution

It presents a novel game prototype combining music and gesture detection to support cognitive and physical health in elderly users, utilizing Kinect-based motion capture.

## Key findings

- Supports cognitive function through memory tasks
- Enhances physical activity with gesture-based gameplay
- Engages elderly users effectively

## Abstract

This paper presents a novel game prototype that uses music and motion detection as preventive medicine for the elderly. Given the aging populations around the globe, and the limited resources and staff able to care for these populations, eHealth solutions are becoming increasingly important, if not crucial, additions to modern healthcare and preventive medicine. Furthermore, because compliance rates for performing physical exercises are often quite low in the elderly, systems able to motivate and engage this population are a necessity. Our prototype uses music not only to engage listeners, but also to leverage the efficacy of music to improve mental and physical wellness. The game is based on a memory task to stimulate cognitive function, and requires users to perform physical gestures to mimic the playing of different musical instruments. To this end, the Microsoft Kinect sensor is used together with a newly developed gesture detection module in order to process users' gestures. The resulting prototype system supports both cognitive functioning and physical strengthening in the elderly.