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Noisy Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation Combined With a Multisensory Balance Program in Older Adults With Moderate to
Ruth McLaren1, Paul F Smith2, Sue Lord1
1Rehabilitation Innovation Centre, School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand.
JMIR Research Protocols
|October 5, 2021
Summary
This study investigates if noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation can improve balance training for older adults at risk of falls. Results will guide future trials on this fall prevention method.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Falls and reduced mobility are prevalent in older adults.
- Balance retraining programs effectively improve mobility and reduce falls.
- Noisy galvanic vestibular stimulation (nGVS) uses low-level electrical stimulation to enhance vestibular neuron firing via stochastic resonance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of using nGVS to augment balance training for older adults at risk of falls.
- To determine if nGVS enhances the effects of balance retraining in this population.
Main Methods:
- A 3-armed randomized controlled trial involving community-dwelling older adults at risk of falling.
- Participants were assigned to nGVS plus balance program, sham plus balance program, or a control group.
- Assessments of balance, gait, and spatial memory were conducted pre- and post-intervention, and at 3-month follow-up.
Main Results:
- Recruitment commenced in November 2020.
- Data collection and analysis were scheduled for completion by December 2022.
Conclusions:
- The study evaluates the feasibility of nGVS combined with balance retraining for fall-risk older adults.
- Findings will inform the design of a larger, fully powered randomized controlled trial.
