Study of Motor Imagery and Action Observation Training to Improve Balance in Older Adults Comparing Combined Virtual Reality and Motor Imagery Training to Virtual Reality Training Alone

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how motor imagery training combined with action observation affects balance in older adults aged 60 to 80. The study aims to compare this combination with virtual reality-based balance training alone to see which method better improves static and dynamic balance, as well as balance confidence. This clinical trial involves 46 geriatric participants and investigates new ways to support balance and reduce fall risks in aging individuals. Participants are divided into two groups one receives motor imagery training with action observation plus virtual reality-based balance training, while the other receives only the virtual reality-based balance training. Training sessions occur twice a week for six weeks. The study groups sessions last 45 minutes, including relaxation, motor imagery, and virtual reality exercises, whereas the control groups sessions last 25 minutes with relaxation and virtual reality training only. Before and after the six weeks, researchers assess muscle activity, static and dynamic balance, walking ability, and balance confidence using tools such as electromyography, balance scales, walking tests, smartphone applications, and questionnaires. Participants cognitive skills, daily living abilities, and walking independence are also evaluated. The study tracks changes to evaluate the effectiveness of the training methods in improving balance among older adults.

The Effect of Motor Image Training on Balance Performance in Geriatric Individuals