The effect of virtual reality gaming on dynamic balance in older adults

Abstract

Background: physical therapy interventions that increase functional strength and balance have been shown to reduce falls in older adults.

Aim: this study compared a virtual reality group (VRG) and a control group (CG).

Design: randomised controlled 6-week intervention with pre- and post-test evaluations.

Setting: outpatient geriatric orthopaedic and balance physical therapy clinic.

Population: forty participants were randomised into two groups.

Method: the VRG received three different Nintendo® Wii FIT balance interventions three times per week for 6 weeks and the CG received no intervention.

Results: compared with the CG, post-intervention measurements showed significant improvements for the VRG in the 8-foot Up & Go test [median decrease of 1.0 versus -0.2 s, (P=0.038) and the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (6.9 versus 1.3%) (P=0.038)].

Conclusion: virtual reality gaming provides clinicians with a useful tool for improving dynamic balance and balance confidence in older adults.