Game on : Staff Insights into Gamified Exercise for Long-Term Care Residents Living with Dementia—A Pilot Study

Background/Objectives: The aging population presents significant challenges to healthcare systems, with conditions like dementia severely affecting the quality of life for older adults, especially those in long-term care. Gamification has the potential to motivate older adults to engage in exercise by transforming physical activities into enjoyable experiences. Incorporating gaming elements in cycling exercises can foster a sense of interest and achievement, potentially improving health outcomes. This pilot study aims to explore interdisciplinary staff perspectives on using a digital game to motivate cycling exercise among residents living with dementia in long-term care (LTC). Methods: This study applied a qualitative description design. Using an interpretive description approach, we conducted focus groups with 29 staff members, including recreational therapists, rehabilitation therapists, nurses, care aides, and leadership in an LTC home. The consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR) guided the data analysis to identify barriers and facilitators to adopting the digital game. Results: Engaging LTC residents living with dementia presents various challenges. Identified potential barriers to implementing the cycling game include cognitive and physical limitations, resistance to change, and intervention complexity. Frontline staff strategies include flexible invitations, social groups, making it fun, and building rapport. Success relies heavily on its cultural and individual relevance, along with strong support from leadership, peers, and family. Conclusions: This pilot study explored staff perspectives on the potential integration of a gamified cycling intervention for older adults with dementia in long-term care settings. Staff emphasized that successful implementation would depend on addressing key barriers and identifying enabling strategies. Based on these findings, practice implications were provided to support effective integration. Further research, including resident input and long-term evaluations, is needed to assess the feasibility, acceptance, and effectiveness of gamification in promoting health outcomes for this population. This study adhered to the COREQ Checklist.