Benefits of Virtual Reality Program and Motor Imagery Training on Balance and Fall Efficacy in Isolated Older Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background and Objectives: for isolated older adults, alternative training indoors to maintain balance is essential; however, related studies are lacking. To improve the balance of isolated older adults and reduce their fear of falling, we aimed to examine the balance–keeping effect of a virtual reality (VR) program and motor imagery training (MIT) and propose training that could improve physical activity among older adults. Methods: a total of 34 older adults admitted to a convalescent hospital were assessed. VR (n = 12) and MIT (n = 10) groups completed their assigned intervention in six weeks, whereas the control group (CG) (n = 12) did not. The follow–up was performed after two weeks. Results: in group × time interactions, body center movement area, open and closed eyes balance scores, and fall efficacy were significantly different (p Conclusions: we propose VR and MIT as training methods to prevent physical weakness in isolated older adults.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• older adults
• isolation
• motor imagery training
• virtual reality