Virtual reality approaches for enhancing postural stability and mobility in the elderly: A mini review

Abstract

The elderly population is growing rapidly, with a significant portion facing challenges related to balance and mobility. Importance of implementation of an effective fall prevention and balance training programme as an essential activity of daily living for elderly is still understated in national literature and policy. Conventional postural stability (PS) and mobility training programmes often face limitations in terms of provision of adequate challenge, engagement and adherence. Virtual reality (VR) technology has emerged as a promising tool in healthcare, with potential applications in PS training for the elderly. VR based PS training provides a fun and engaging environment resulting in enhanced motivation, with appropriate intensity and high frequency intervention. While individually designed VR systems are expensive; a range of commercially available full body motion platform based gaming systems such as Nintendo Wii Fit, Xbox Kinect, PlayStation eyetoy etc. serve as potential and suitable alternatives. This review article provides a synthesis of current evidence related to available systems, protocols and potential limitations of individual systems with an aim to enhance utilization of VR based PS training as fall prevention approach to improve quality of life and promote healthy aging among elderly.

Keywords: Elderly, Fall Risk, Kinect, Postural Stability Training, Virtual Reality, Wii Fit..