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2D Virtual Reality-Based Exercise Improves Spatial Navigation in Institutionalized Non-robust Older Persons: A
Luciana Mendes Oliveira1, Eric Hudson Evangelista E Souza2, Mariana Rocha Alves1
1Graduate Program of Medicine (Neurology/Neurosciences), Federal Fluminense University, Niterói, Brazil.
Frontiers in Neurology
|February 15, 2021
Summary
Virtual reality exercise significantly improved spatial navigation in older adults. This intervention shows promise for enhancing cognitive function in non-robust elderly individuals.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Spatial navigation deficits are early indicators of dementia.
- While exercise and virtual reality (VR) benefit cognition, their combined impact on spatial navigation needs clarification.
- This study examines VR-based physical exercise using 2D exergames for spatial navigation in non-robust older adults.
Observation:
- Fourteen older adults (≥60 years) were randomized into an exergame (EG) group or an active control (ACG) group.
- The EG engaged in 2D exergame exercises, while the ACG performed similar movements without VR.
- Spatial navigation was evaluated using the Floor Maze Test, measuring immediate maze time (IMT) and delayed maze time (DMT).
Findings:
- The exergame group demonstrated enhanced spatial navigation compared to the active control group.
- A statistically significant reduction in IMT was observed in the EG (p = 0.01).
- DMT showed a significant difference between groups nearing the threshold for statistical significance (p = 0.07).
Implications:
- VR-based exercise effectively improves spatial navigation skills in institutionalized, non-robust older individuals.
- These findings suggest a potential non-pharmacological intervention for cognitive decline in aging populations.
- Further research is recommended to validate and expand upon these promising results.
