Comparing Non-Immersive Virtual Reality Training and Otago Exercise Program on Balance and Walking in Older Adults

What this Trial Is About

Falling is a serious issue for older adults due to age-related declines in physical function, which can lead to injuries and reduced independence. Researchers are comparing the effects of the Otago Exercise Program, which includes strength and balance exercises, with non-immersive virtual reality VR training on balance, gait, leg strength, and fear of falling in elderly people aged 55 and above. This study uses a randomized control trial design to evaluate differences between these two approaches. Participants are divided into two groups one group will follow the Otago Exercise Program, which involves strengthening exercises targeting hip and leg muscles, balance retraining progressing through levels of difficulty, and walking activities. The other group will receive VR training using Xbox Kinect games that track movement via sensors, with sessions lasting 30 to 45 minutes three times per week for 12 weeks. Outcomes will be measured at the start, and then at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. During the study, participants will be assessed using tools like the Mini-BESTEST scale, 10 Meter walk test, 30-second sit to stand test, and the Fall Efficacy Scale International to evaluate their balance, gait parameters, leg strength, and fear of falling. Data collected will help determine how each intervention impacts these factors over the 12-week period. The study also involves demographic data collection and analysis using statistical software to compare results.

Effects of Non-immersive Virtual Reality Training Compared to Otago Exercise Program on Balance and Spatiotemporal Gait Parameters in Elderly Population